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Expert Endeavor 



Books by Amos R. Wells 

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Expert Endeavor 



A Text-book of Christian Endeavor 
Methods and Principles 

For the Use of Classes and of Candidates 

for the Title of "C. E. E." — 

'•Christian Endeavor 

Expert " 



Bv AMOS R. WELLS 
w 

Editorial Secretary of the United Society of Christian 

Endeavor 




BOSTON AND CHICAGO 
UNITED SOCIETY OF CHRISTIAN ENDEAVOR 



.W<f3 



Copyrighted, 1Q11 
By the United Society of Christian Endeavor 



LC Control Number 




tmp96 027676 



©CU297434 
Ylo.t 



INTRODUCTION 

THE Christian Endeavor Society is a training- 
school for church work. This book is a text- 
book for use in that training. 

Its purpose is twofoloV: to furnish a course of ques- 
tions and answers for the study of candidates for 
the title of " Christian Endeavor Expert," and to 
serve as a text-book for classes in Christian En- 
deavor methods, to be used in local societies, Chris- 
tian Endeavor unions, summer schools, and Chris- 
tian Endeavor conventions. 

The title, " C. E. E.,"— " Christian Endeavor 
Expert," — is conferred by the United Society of 
Christian Endeavor upon those that have passed 
(75 per cent) examinations in all the chapters of 
this book. The examining committee Is to be ap- 
pointed by each society, and it is suggested that the 
pastor serve as a member of this committee, if he 
has the time. Examinations may be oral or written; 
if oral, each Endeavorer will be examined separately. 
If an Endeavorer fails in an examination he will 
study harder and try again. A special pin has been 
prepared for the use of Christian Endeavor Experts. 
The work may be done by individuals or in groups, 
or a class in the study may be formed by the society. 

It is urged that our societies make it a rule that 
all officers and committee members shall qualify by 
passing examinations in the chapters of this book 

5 



INTRODUCTION 



pertaining to their several duties, and that the 
office or committee position be vacated if the En- 
deavorer does not thus qualify within one month 
after election. 

To facilitate the use of these tests each chapter 
is published as a separate leaflet by the United 
Society of Christian Endeavor. These leaflets are 
sold in packages for societies of twenty-five members 
or multiples of twenty-five, each package contain- 
ing a copy for each member of the first three chap- 
ters of this book, and for each officer and committee 
member (three being supposed to be the number of 
each committee) the leaflet on his special work. 
The price of these packages for societies of 25 is 
$1.25; 50 members, $2.00; 75 members, $2.75; 100 
members, $3.50; 125 members, $4.25. The last six 
chapters of the book' are not included in these pack- 
ages, but, if desired, may be obtained separately at 
the rate of one cent each; the same price is charged 
for additional leaflets for the use of committees 
larger than three members. Sample copies of these 
leaflets, two cents each. 

For the use of the book as a class text-book full 
directions are given in the concluding pages of the 
volume. 

AMOS R. WELLS. 



CONTENTS 

Chapter Page 

I. Prayer Meeting 9 

II. The Pledge 13 

III. Christian Endeavor History and 

Principles 17 

IV. President 21 

V. Vice-President 25 

VI. Secretary 29 

VII. Treasurer 33 

VIII. Corresponding Secretary 37 

IX. Pianist 41 

X. Junior Superintendent 45 

XL Intermediate Superintendent 49 

XII. Lookout Committee 53 

XIII. Prayer-meeting Committee 57 

XIV. Missionary Committee 61 

XV. Social Committee 65 

XVI. Music Committee 69 

XVII. Flower Committee 73 

XVIII. Information Committee 77 

XIX. Sunday-school Committee 81 

XX. Junior Committee 85 

XXI. Finance Committee 89 

7 



CONTENTS 



XXII. Temperance and Citizenship Com- 
mittee 93 

XXIII. Pastor's Aid Committee 97 

XXIV. Good-Literature Committee 101 

XXV. Whatsoever Committee 105 

XXVI. Press Committee 109 

XXVII. Leaders 113 

XXVIII. Associate Members 117 

XXIX. Tenth Legion 121 

XXX. Quiet Hour 125 

XXXI. Classes in Christian Endeavor 

Methods 129 



Chapter I 
THE PRAYER MEETING 

Why does Christian Endeavor insist so 
strongly upon the value of the prayer meeting ? 

Because it is the chief and almost the only agency 
of the church for accomplishing certain definite and 
very important results. 

What are the results that we may gain from 
the prayer meeting? 

They are five: original thought on religious sub- 
jects; open committal to the cause of Christ; the 
helpful expression of Christian thought and experi- 
ence; the cultivation of the spirit of worship through 
public prayer and through singing; the guidance of 
others along all these lines of service and life. 

How can we get original thought on the 
prayer- meeting topics? 

Only by study of the Bible, followed by medita- 
tion and observation. First, the Endeavorer should 
read the Bible passage; then he should read some 
good commentary upon it; then he should take the 
subject with him into his daily life for five or six 
days, thinking about it in his odd minutes and 
watching for experiences in his own life or the lives 
of others, or observing nature and looking for illus- 

9 



IO EXPERT ENDEAVOR 



trations on the subject from all these sources. 
Prayer-meeting preparation should begin the Sun- 
day beforehand. 

How will prayer help us to prepare for the 
meetings? 

It will put us in the right frame of mind for them. 
It will make us humble and receptive. In answer to 
prayer, God will often put helpful thoughts into 
our minds, but only when we have done our best to 
fill them ourselves. God will not give His wisdom 
to a lazy or careless mind. 

How can we learn to express the thoughts 
that we obtain? 

There is only one way: by expressing them! No 
one learns how to speak in public without speaking 
in public. Any one can learn by courage and per- 
sistence. The most helpful speakers were timid 
stammerers at first. Dare to break down for Christ, 
and He will build you up. Don't care whether 
others laugh at you or not: He will not. Do the 
best you can, and be sure that gradually it will be- 
come better. 

What is the best position for speaking? 

Stand and face the society. You will not be half 
so timid if you " face the music " as you will be if 
you speak sitting down and to people's backs. The 
faces of your fellow members will inspire you and 
give you courage. This is the experience of all that 
have tried it. 



THE PRAYER MEETING II 

What is the best time in the meeting for 
beginning to speak? 

As soon as the meeting is " thrown open "! The 
experienced speakers should urge the beginners to 
take this time, and should usually hold their own 
words until later. If you speak at once, what you 
have to say will not be taken out of your mouth 
by some readier speaker, and you will not have time 
to work yourself up into a fright. 

Are we to read Bible verses and other quo- 
tations? 

Yes, all we please, if we will make them the origi- 
nal expression of our own lives by thinking about 
them, and adding to them something, if only a 
sentence, to show that we have made them our 
own. Always give the writer's name, or the part of 
the Bible from which you quote. Commit the quo- 
tation to memory and do not read it. 

How can we progress in prayer-meeting 
work? 

By determining to take one step forward every 
month, or every two months at most, until we have 
become able to do everything in a prayer meeting: 
comment on quotations; relate an anecdote or an 
observation, and draw a lesson from it; speak of 
our own experiences; give an argument and a con- 
clusion; start a song without the piano (if you can 
sing); offer public prayer, beginning with sentence 
prayers; and lead a meeting. 



12 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 

How long should any Endeavorer speak? 

That may be learned by subtracting from the 
time of the meeting fifteen minutes for the opening 
exercises and ten for the songs and the closing exer- 
cises, thus leaving about half an hour, which is 
usually all the time there is to divide among the 
members present. If thirty are present, the aver- 
age member should not speak longer than one min- 
ute. If any one speaks longer than the average 
time thus determined, it should be, generally speak- 
ing, only at the very end of the meeting, after all 
the beginners have taken part. 

What spirit will make our prayer-meeting 
work a success? 

The desire to please our dear Saviour in bearing 
witness for Him and in helping others to Him. 
This spirit will free us from timidity and also from 
vanity. We shall not think about ourselves but 
about the meeting. We shall be eager to do our best, 
for Christ is listening. We shall be encouraged to 
do our best, for it is Christ's meeting and not ours, 
and we trust in Him for strength. He can and will 
take the most faltering utterance, if it is the best 
we can do, and make it as fruitful as the most elo- 
quent sermon. He will bless every endeavor that 
is an endeavor for Him. 



Chapter II 
THE PLEDGE 

What is our Christian Endeavor pledge? 

It is a standard of character and action which we 
promise to try to reach. 

Is the pledge compulsory? 

No one is obliged to join the society. Every En- 
deavorer takes the pledge because he wishes to, be- 
lieving that it will help him in his Christian life. 

Is any one form of pledge insisted upon by 
the United Society of Christian Endeavor? 

No; several widely varying forms are suggested, 
and if none of these is approved by the pastor and 
society, they may frame their own. All that is asked 
is that every society set up some worthy standard 
which the members will promise to try to reach. 

What are the standards set up in the pledge 
that is used by the large majority of the so- 
cieties? 

As to the individual life, that the Endeavorer 
will try to do whatever Christ would have him do; 
that he will make it the rule of his life to pray and 
read the Bible every 'day; that he will try to lead a 
Christian life as long as he lives. As to the society, 

13 



14 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 

that he will try to be true to all his duties, especially 
in taking some part, aside from singing, in every 
Christian Endeavor prayer meeting and sending 
some message to the consecration meeting if he is 
absent. As to the church, that he will support it 
in every way, especially by attending all the reg- 
ular Sunday and midweek services. 

Do we promise to do these things? 

No; but only to try to do them, trusting in Christ 
for strength. The pledge itself expressly says that 
these things are not to be done when we have a 
reasonable excuse; that is, an excuse that we think 
Christ would accept. 

Does the pledge create new duties ? 

Not one. Every item of the pledge is already a 
duty for every one that pretends to be a follower of 
Christ. The pledge only recognizes these duties 
that already exist, and spurs us on to do them. 

If we fail to read our Bible because we are 
sick, or suddenly called from home, or happen 
to forget it, or if we omit to take part in the 
meetings once in a while, have we thereby 
broken our solemn promise? 

No, not if it is " the rule of our lives " to do 
these things. The pledge itself provides for the 
occasional rare exceptions. 

Does the pledge make Bible-reading, prayer, 
and prayer-meeting testimony a duty when 
they should be a privilege? 



THE PLEDGE 1 5 



It holds us to them as a duty, and so gives them 
a chance to become a privilege. 

What motive will lie back of true pledge- 
keeping? 

The desire to please our blessed Redeemer. With 
that desire, we shall be eager to promise to do what 
we think He wants us to do, and we shall seek to do 
as much as possible for Him, rather than as little 
as possible. 

In this spirit, how shall we keep our promise 
to pray daily? 

By setting apart a regular time for communing 
with our Father, and by spending some worthy 
amount of time in this blessed employment. Try 
the early morning, and at least fifteen minutes, as 
a Comrade of the Quiet Hour. 

How shall we keep our promise of daily 
Bible-reading? 

Not by reading a hasty verse when we are sleepy 
and about to go to bed, but by reading generous 
portions of Holy Writ, often in connection with 
some illuminating commentary, and by thinking 
about what we have read till it becomes a part of 
our lives. 

How shall we keep our promise of taking 
part in the Christian Endeavor meeting? 

By early and full preparation, and by doing our 
best in the meeting, trying all the time to do more 
and better. Never say that you cannot give an 



1 6 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 



original thought or offer prayer or lead a meeting, 
remembering what a Helper you have. 

How shall we keep our promise with regard 
to our duties in the society? 

By throwing our whole soul into the committee 
work or officer's work that may be given us. By 
attending the socials and the business meetings, 
and in all ways doing our part, and more than our 
part, to make the society a success. 

How shall we keep our promise with refer- 
ence to the church? 

By contributing to its support as we have the 
means, and by attending its services regularly; es- 
pecially by joining the church, and doing our duty 
as a church-member in the church prayer meeting. 

What is the most important part of the 
pledge? 

The first sentence. It sums up all our promises: 
to try to do Christ's will; and all our resources: the 
unfailing strength of Jesus Christ. 



Chapter III 

CHRISTIAN ENDEAVOR HISTORY AND 
PRINCIPLES 

Who founded the Young People's Society of 
Christian Endeavor? 

Rev. Francis E. Clark, at that time pastor of the 
Williston Congregational Church in Portland, Me. 

When and where was it founded ? 

On the evening of February 2, 1881, in the parson- 
age of Williston Church. 

What was the first newspaper article about 
the new society? 

An article entitled, " How One Church Cares for 
Its Young People," by Dr. Clark, published in 
The Congregationalist in August, 1881. 

Where and when was the second society 
formed ? 

In October, 1881, by Rev. Charles Perry Mills, in 
the North Congregational Church in Newburyport, 
Mass. 

When and where was the first Christian 
Endeavor Convention held? 

In Williston Church, on June 2, 1882, when only 
six societies were recorded. 

i7 



1 8 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 

What was the first Christian Endeavor book ? 

Dr. Clark's book, " Children and the Church," 
published in 1883. 

At what Convention was the United Society 
of Christian Endeavor formed ? 

At the Convention held in Old Orchard, Me., 
July, 1885. 

Who was the first president? 

Hon. W. J. Van Patten, of Vermont. 
How is the United Society supported ? 

Solely by the sale of Christian Endeavor helps, 
with no dues or assessments from the societies. 

When and where was the first local union 
formed ? 

At New Haven, Conn., in January, 1886. 

When was the Christian Endeavor organ, 
"The Golden Rule, " now " The Christian 
Endeavor World," established? 

In October, 1886. 

When did Dr. Clark become president of the 
United Society of Christian Endeavor, giving 
up from that time his entire life to the work? 

In 1886. 

When did Dr. Clark make his first foreign 
journey in the interests of Christian Endeavor? 

In the spring of 1888, when he laid the founda- 
tion of Christian Endeavor in England. 



HISTORY AND PRINCIPLES 1 9 

When was Christian Endeavor Day first 
observed ? 

In 1888. 

Who have been general secretaries of the 
United Society? 

Rev. S. Winchester Adriance; Rev. George M. 
Ward, D.D., now president of Wells College; 
John Willis Baer, LL.D., now president of Occi- 
dental College; Von Ogden Vogt, and William Shaw. 

What have been some of the most notable 
of Christian Endeavor Conventions? 

That in New York City in 1892, when 35,000 
came together; that in Montreal in 1893, the first 
held outside the United States; the Cleveland Con- 
vention of 1894, held during the great railroad 
strike; that of Boston in 1895, with . more than 
56,000 registered delegates — our largest Conven- 
tion; that of Washington, 1896, held in three large 
tents near the foot of the Washington Monument; 
that of San Francisco in 1897, when nearly 30,000 
delegates attended, half of them from the East; 
that of Atlantic City in 1911, which was the first 
to be addressed by a president of the United States 
— President Taft. 

What Conventions of the World's Christian 
Endeavor Union have been held ? 

Those in Washington; London, England; Geneva, 
Switzerland; and Agra, India — all magnificent 
gatherings. 



20 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 

What is the spread of Christian Endeavor? 

Into every country of the globe, but it is es- 
pecially strong, next to the United States, in Great 
Britain, Germany, Canada, Brazil, South Africa, 
Australia, India, China, and Japan. 

What is the spread of Christian Endeavor 
among the denominations? 

It is found in about eighty evangelical denomi- 
nations, in most of which it is the only young peo- 
ple's society. 

What are the principles of Christian En- 
deavor? 

Definite standards of service, and definite com- 
mitment to those standards. Open confession of 
Christ, and speaking for Him according to ability 
and opportunity. The cultivation of the devotional 
life by regular prayer and Bible-study. Training in 
Christian service by a variety of committee work. 
Loyalty to the church, and regular attendance upon 
the church services. Generous giving to Christian 
work. Christian citizenship. Interdenominational 
fellowship, and the promotion of peace and goodwill 
among the nations of the world. All of these en- 
deavors to be made in accordance with the will of 
Christ, and trusting in Him for strength. These are 
the purposes and the steady aim of Christian 
Endeavor, 



Chapter IV 
THE PRESIDENT 

What does the word " president " mean? 

One who presides. The president is to preside 
over the work of others, to inspire others, getting 
them to work and keeping them at it; he is not to 
do their work for them. 

Over what is the president to preside? 

Over the business meetings of the society and the 
meetings of the executive committee; also over all 
the committee work of the society, having in charge 
all the society interests of whatever nature. 

What, then, are the essentials for a success- 
ful president? 

Personal consecration, high ideals, energy, per- 
severance, tact, and inventiveness. 

What will the president do to insure a suc- 
cessful business meeting? 

He will see the chairmen of committees before- 
hand and urge them to have their written reports 
ready. Most of all, he will keep the committees 
active so that they will have something to report. 

What does the president need in order to 
preside well over the business meetings? 



22 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 

A knowledge of the few points of parliamentary 
law that will be needed. Promptness, firmness, and 
push. He will have a word of praise for good re- 
ports and a tactful suggestion for improvement here 
and there, but he will not talk much; he will ex- 
pedite business. 

Where is the president's main field of oper- 
ations? 

The executive committee, for good executive- 
committee meetings insure the success of a society. 

What constitutes a good executive-commit- 
tee meeting? 

First, a regular time and place of meeting. The 
meeting should be once a month and in the same 
place, preferably the home of the president, if that 
is central. Second, every chairman and officer will 
be present. Third, every chairman and officer will 
report his work for the past month, and the report 
will be discussed. Fourth, some plan will be formed 
for each officer and chairman to work upon during 
the coming month, and the president will have such 
a plan to suggest if no one else suggests it. 

Where may these plans be found ? 

In the various committee helps published by the 
United Society of Christian Endeavor and in The 
Christian Endeavor World. 

What is the president's duty and privilege 
with reference to the meetings of the various 
committees? 



THE PRESIDENT 2$ 



He has a right as president to attend any of them, 
and he should be informed whenever they meet and 
as far ahead of time as possible. He will not be re- 
quired to attend, but will be welcomed when he 
can be there. He will not preside or vote, but will 
be free to make suggestions. He should be present 
at the first meeting of each committee, and should 
arrange with the chairmen of the different com- 
mittees to hold their first meetings on different 
evenings in rapid succession, immediately after 
they are elected. 

What will the president do for the prayer 
meetings? 

He will take part in various ways, so as to set a 
good example, but he will be brief. He will keep a 
hand on the meetings, especially if the leader is 
inexperienced, calling for the information commit- 
tee's report, if that is omitted, asking for sentence 
prayers, announcing the number of a hymn called 
for if it is called for in a faint voice, introducing 
strangers and inviting them to take part, calling 
for the pastor's five minutes if the leader forgets it 
or does not call for it at the proper time, and so on. 

What is the president's duty in relation to 
the socials? 

To be present as one of the leading spirits, intro- 
ducing strangers, bringing forward the bashful, 
taking part heartily in all that is going on, and 
conducting the closing devotional exercises. 



24 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 

How often should the president lead the 
meetings? 

More frequently perhaps than other members, 
especially the consecration meetings, unless the so- 
ciety is a large one and there are many leaders to 
choose from. Moreover, it is a good plan for the 
president to sit always in front of the society, by the 
side of the leader. This is a great encouragement 
to timid leaders. 

What is the president's duty with regard to 
the church? 

He represents the society before the church. 
Many churches make the Christian Endeavor pres- 
ident an ex officio member of the church committee 
or governing body of the church. In many churches 
regular reports are expected from the Christian En- 
deavor president at the church business meetings. 

What is the president's relation to the 
pastor? 

He should be in the closest touch with the pastor, 
often going to him and asking for advice and for 
suggestions of work he would like done, and then 
making it his first business to carry out those sug- 
gestions. 

Where will the president find full directions 
for his work, including an annotated consti- 
tution and full outline of parlianientary law? 

In " The Officer's Handbook," sent postpaid for 
35 cents by the United Society of Christian En- 
deavor, Tremont Temple, Boston. 



Chapter V 
THE VICE-PRESIDENT 

What does "vice-president" mean? 

11 Vice" is from the Latin word meaning " instead 
of," so that a vice-president is one that acts instead 
of the president when the president is absent or sick, 
or for any other reason cannot act. 

Has the vice-president any other duties ? 

Yes, in the ideal relation he will aid the presi- 
dent in his work when the president is present as 
well as take his place when he is absent. 

Why should he do this ? 

Partly because the president's work, when rightly 
done, is so heavy that the president needs help, 
and partly in order that the vice-president may 
receive training in the president's work and so be 
able to take it up satisfactorily in the president's 
absence. 

What if the president does not seek the aid 
of the vice-president, or give him any chance 
to learn the president's duties ? 

Then the vice-president may well show him this 
chapter and tell the president why he wants the 
training. Some societies, though they do not bind 
themselves to elect the vice-president as the next 



26 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 



president, yet often do so, and it is always well to 
have some one in training for that important office. 
This is an additional reason for giving the vice- 
president some share in the president's work. 

What regular work may be given to the vice- 
president ? 

In some societies it is the custom to make the 
vice-president the chairman of the lookout com- 
mittee. This position requires him to have an 
oversight of the entire society not unlike that which 
the president should give, and thus he is a great 
help to the president, and is training to take up 
the president's work when it is necessary for him to 
do so. The plan may well be adopted in all our so- 
cieties. 

But if this plan is not adopted ? 

Then it is well for the president to assign to 
the vice-president some definite portion of his work. 
For instance, the president is supposed to have 
oversight of all the committee work of the society. 
This is a large undertaking, and it will be an excel- 
lent idea for him to divide up the committees with 
the vice-president, allowing that officer to be respon- 
sible for about half of the committees. The vice- 
president will attend the meetings of these com- 
mittees whenever he can, will know what they are 
doing, will talk over plans with their chairmen, and 
will stimulate them to do their best. In all this, 
of course, he will be careful not to " boss" or to take 
away responsibility from the chairmen, but he will 



THE VICE-PRESIDENT 27 

act merely as an interested friend of the work and 
the workers. 

What will the vice-president do in the 
monthly meetings of the executive commit- 
tee ? 

He will always be present, ready with suggestions 
for new work and better work, as well as praise of 
the work that has been done. The president will 
usually preside over the executive-committee meet- 
ing, but he will sometimes allow the vice-presi- 
dent to preside, even when the president is there, so 
that he may be trained to preside in the president's 
absence. 

What will the vice-president do in the busi- 
ness meetings ? 

He will be the president's right-hand man, bring- 
ing up many items of business that the president 
wishes to introduce, and doing what he can to make 
the meetings move briskly. Sometimes the presi- 
dent will have the vice-president preside over the 
business meetings even when the president is there. 

What will the vice-president do in the 
prayer meetings ? 

He will feel free to do what he can for the suc- 
cess of the meetings, though without putting him- 
self forward into the president's place. It will be 
well in a large society for the president to sit on 
one side of the room and the vice-president on the 
other, so that each may attend to presidential mat- 



28 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 



ters on his own side. For instance, strangers may 
come in upon whom it is desirable to call for some 
message in the course of the meeting; or there may 
be announcements to make before the close of the 
meeting, or other matters of business may come up. 

How, in general, is the vice-president to 
learn about the president's business ? 

Besides the ways just mentioned, he is to study 
the accounts of the president's work given in Chris- 
tian Endeavor manuals, and he should also be- 
come familiar with parliamentary law, at least the 
simple principles necessary for the conduct of 
Christian Endeavor business meetings. Everything 
that he can learn about wise Christian Endeavor 
methods from Christian Endeavor books and 
periodicals will be helpful to him. 

What should be the vice-president's aim 
in all this? 

To subordinate himself, to be a real helper for 
the president and a real inspiration to the society, 
and to prepare himself for larger responsibility if 
it should ever be placed upon him. 



Chapter VI 
THE RECORDING SECRETARY 

What is the work of the recording secretary? 

The recording secretary (usually called simply 
" the secretary-," but so called here to distinguish 
this officer from the corresponding secretary) has 
charge of the records of the society, and takes care 
of all the secretarial work of the society except 
what comes in and goes out through the post- 
office. The latter belongs to the corresponding 
secretary. 

What is the most important duty of the 
secretary ? 

To keep accurately and carefully the roll of the 
society members. This is the most important duty, 
because the work of so many other committees, 
such as the prayer-meeting committee and the 
lookout committee and the finance committee, de- 
pends upon it. 

What should the society membership roll 
contain? 

The autographs of all the members, made at the 
time when they join the society. The dates of join- 
ing. The up-to-date addresses of all the members. 
The active, associate, and honorary members 
29 



30 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 



should be recorded separately. When a person is 
transferred from one of these lists to another or to 
the lists of absent or past members, a new record of 
his name should be made in the proper place. In a 
large society this membership record should be in 
the form of a card catalogue. 

Has the secretary the authority to transfer 
members from one list to another? 

No; this transfer is to be made only by vote of 
the society or of the executive committee, whichever 
the constitution says. 

What is the work of the secretary that is 
next in importance? 

Keeping the record of the business transacted by 
the society. 

What should these minutes include? 

The names of all officers elected, and of all com- 
mittees. The motions made and carried. A state- 
ment of all reports made, and the substance of 
them in condensed form. The minutes should also 
present a faithful picture of the meeting reported, 
including a brisk summary of the discussions, and 
a statement of the motions that failed as well as of 
those that passed. For the future it is often as im- 
portant to know what the society has decided not to 
do as to know what it has determined upon. 

What style should be used in writing the 
minutes? 

As bright a style as the secretary can command. 
Put in a bit of fun where you can. Fill the record 



THE RECORDING SECRETARY 3 1 

with point. The reading of the minutes, which in 
many societies is a dull, perfunctory performance, 
may be made a quickening exercise, a genuine stim- 
ulus to the society, prompting every Endeavorer to 
do his best. 

When should the minutes be written out? 

Immediately after the meeting. If you wait, 
your notes will grow " cold " and you will forget 
what some of them mean. Your report, however, 
should not be copied into the record-book of the 
society till it has been approved by the society, un- 
less you are experienced, and are sure that the 
record will be approved. Copy the minutes into 
the record-book, however, as soon as they are ap- 
proved. 

How may the secretary have the records 
ready for reference when questions as to past 
action come up in the business meetings? 

By devoting a dozen pages in the back of the 
record-book to an index, where the secretary will 
enter under the proper letters the pages where all 
important action may be found. 

What has the secretary to do with reference 
to the executive-committee meetings? 

The secretary will attend these meetings, and 
keep a record of them the same as of the business 
meetings of the society, but in a separate book. 

How should the secretary call the roll at 
the consecration meetings? 



32 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 

Without haste, and yet with businesslike rapidity. 
Pause only long enough after each name to make 
sure that the message which should be sent if the 
member is absent has a chance to be heard. The 
most important possession for a secretary calling a 
roll is a loud voice. 

What notifications should the secretary 
send? 

Written notifications of election should be sent 
promptly to all officers and committees elected, 
whether they were present at the meeting or not. 
When any order is passed by the society affecting 
any officer or committee, pass it on in writing to 
that officer or committee, and do it at once. When 
a new member is elected, he should be promptly and 
cordially notified of that fact. The secretary should 
use his best penmanship and stationery, and should 
make the new member feel that an honor has been 
conferred upon him. 

What are some of the other duties that the 
secretary will perform? 

He will send notices of special meetings to the 
pulpit and the church paper, and post them on the 
society bulletin board. Sometimes the secretary 
sees to the printing of the topic cards, though 
usually the prayer-meeting committee does this; 
but there is always some printing in the course of 
the year that the secretary should take in hand and 
put through with taste and accuracy. 



Chapter VII 
THE TREASURER 

What is the duty of a Christian Endeavor 
treasurer? 

To keep the money of the society, pay it out on 
proper orders, and stimulate and direct the so- 
ciety finances. 

What are the characteristics of the ideal 
treasurer? 

Honesty, of course; he will never mix his own 
money with that of the society. Then accuracy, 
neatness, promptness, vigor, and tact. These are 
the important qualities of a good business man. 

What is the first duty of a Christian En- 
deavor treasurer? 

To take care of the money that is placed in his 
hands. It is a sacred trust to which he should be 
entirely true. 

How will this trust be performed? 

By keeping the society money in a safe place 
where it will be available immediately on call. The 
wisest plan is to put the money in a bank. 

What accounts will the treasurer keep? 

33 



34 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 

He will have a society account-book, and will 
enter promptly in a businesslike way every cent 
received and from what source it comes, and every 
cent expended and where it went. Dates will be 
recorded for everything. He will often strike a bal- 
ance and count the money, so that he can tell when- 
ever required exactly " the state of the treasury." 

How will the treasurer protect himself 
against charges of error? 

By insisting on the appointment of an auditor, 
who will go over the accounts carefully, and report to 
the society that they have been kept correctly. 

What individual accounts will the treasurer 
keep? 

He may keep separate accounts with the com- 
mittees or the committee chairmen. If the pledge 
system of giving has been adopted by the society, 
the treasurer should keep individual accounts with 
members, entering under the name of each member 
every payment he makes in fulfillment of his pledge. 

On whose authority will the treasurer pay 
out money? 

Only on vote of the society or by written order 
from the officers, committees, or committee chair- 
men whom the society has expressly authorized to 
draw on the treasury. 

How will the treasurer protect himself when 
he pays out money? 

By having a blank receipt-book, and requiring 



THE TREASURER 35 

receipts from all to whom he pays money. In no 
other way can the auditor have a basis for his ex- 
amination and report. 

Why is such minute care necessary in deal- 
ing with the small sums of our Christian 
Endeavor treasuries? 

Because the great object of our society is training; 
and as these small sums are managed, so in all 
probability will be managed the larger trust sums 
that the Endeavorers will handle when they hold 
office in the mature portion of the church. 

What is the first essential for a proper sys- 
tem of society finances? 

A budget; that is, a detailed list of the sums the 
society desires and expects to raise for various ob- 
jects and purposes during the year. This budget 
will be prepared by the executive committee, and 
will include gifts to the denominational missionary 
societies and the work of Christian Endeavor at 
large and to the support of the various lines of work 
taken up by the society. The budget will be pre- 
sented to the society and voted by it. 

What is the best way to raise money for the 
budget? 

The pledge system. Each member will be ap- 
proached by the treasurer and the finance commit- 
tee, and asked to sign a slip of paper bearing figures 
from 1 to 25. The member will cross out the sum 
he expects to give monthly toward the budget. It 



36 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 



is understood that he may withdraw his pledge at 
any time. He receives from the treasurer a pack- 
age of twelve little envelopes bearing his number, 
and places one of these envelopes containing his 
gift in the contribution-box at each consecration 
meeting. 

What will make this plan a success? 

The thoroughness with which the treasurer and 
the finance committee see every member and obtain 
from each a pledge, however small. During the 
opening weeks of the society year the treasurer will 
report to the society at every meeting just how 
many have made pledges and the aggregate amount 
pledged, and how near the society is to raising the 
sum called for by the budget. The blackboard will 
be called in to impress the facts upon the members. 

How will the treasurer keep the subject be- 
fore the society? 

If at any time during the year the returns are slow 
in coming in, the treasurer will make a warning 
speech, and, if necessary, will " go for " the delin- 
quent members in person. 

In what spirit will the treasurer do all this 
work? 

Not for the sake of a fine report and big budget 
and full treasury and a goodly surplus, but to please 
our Lord and Master, who still sits " over against 
the treasury," and who cares much less for what we 
give than for the spirit of loving service in which 
we give it. 



Chapter VIII 
THE CORRESPONDING SECRETARY 

What, in brief, is the work of the corre- 
sponding secretary? 

To attend to the correspondence of the society, 
both that received and that sent out. 

Why does the United Society of Christian 
Endeavor ask that this be a measurably per- 
manent officer? 

Because the corresponding secretary is the link 
between the society and all the Christian Endeavor 
unions, local, State, and national, and also the de- 
nominational authorities. If this officer were 
changed often, it would be impossible for these 
organizations to keep in touch with the society. 

When should the corresponding secretary 
be changed? 

Whenever the person holding the office fails to do 
the work promptly and well, and through failure of 
interest or force of circumstances cannot become 
more faithful. Notice of the successor should at 
once be sent to the national, State, and local Chris- 
tian Endeavor unions, and to the missionary boards 
of the denomination and other denominational 

37 



38 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 

authorities that wish to keep in touch with the 
society. 

Who should occupy the post of correspond- 
ing secretary? 

Some older Endeavorer who has had a service in 
the society long enough to become thoroughly 
familiar with the work. The post, however, should 
not be occupied by one that has been in the society 
so long as to lose interest in the work, but by one 
of the most efficient and zealous members of the 
society. 

What letters are likely to come to the cor- 
responding secretary? 

Requests for information and statistics from the 
United Society of Christian Endeavor and the 
State and local Christian Endeavor unions. Letters 
from the president and secretary of the United 
Society, giving new plans for the work. Similar 
letters from the officers of the State and local unions. 
Letters and circulars from the denominational 
mission boards and other denominational authori- 
ties. Also many begging letters and appeals from all 
kinds of organizations and private persons. 

What is to be done with these communica- 
tions? 

Every one of them is to be passed on immediately 
to the proper officer. If the letter calls merely for 
statistics, give it to the recording secretary, who 
will either answer it herself, or give the correspond- 



THE CORRESPONDING SECRETARY 39 

ing secretary the facts for her to answer it. If it 
must be passed upon by the executive committee, 
hand it to the president. It is not the business of 
the corresponding secretary to pass judgment on 
any communication and decide whether it should be 
answered or not. 

Who is to answer the letters that come to 
the corresponding secretary? 

The corresponding secretary, if the society so in- 
structs, as it usually will. If the letter simply calls 
for statistics, it is not necessary to refer it to the 
executive committee. As said above, the corre- 
sponding secretary will either answer it herself, 
getting the facts from the recording secretary, or 
will see that the recording secretary answers. 

What is the corresponding secretary to say 
in a " letter of introduction," when such a 
letter is voted by the society? 

Simply say that the Endeavorer who is leaving 
your society is an active (or associate ) member in 
good standing, and that on behalf of the society you 
are glad to introduce him to the society in the place 
to which he is going. Add some account of the work 
the Endeavorer has done in your society and the 
positions he has held. This letter is only to intro- 
duce the Endeavorer; he must be elected a member 
of the society in the other town just like any one 
else. 

Who sends off the money contributed by the 
society to various causes? 



40 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 

The treasurer, and not the corresponding secre- 
tary. Often it goes through the church treasurer. 

Who notifies new officers and committees 
of their election? 

The recording secretary, who will conduct all 
correspondence within the society, as the recording 
secretary has the records on which such notes are 
based. 

What information may the corresponding 
secretary obtain from other societies? 

The corresponding secretary may well correspond 
with other corresponding secretaries about the best 
ways of working and about the progress of other 
societies. The letters thus obtained will be read to 
the society, with comments. 

If the society should vote a resolution re- 
garding some public matter, who should 
transmit it to the officer or organization 
involved ? 

The corresponding secretary, whose duty it is to 
attend to all the exterior correspondence of the 
society. 

What work will the corresponding secretary 
do with the absent members? 

She will keep in touch with them, asking for an 
occasional message for the consecration meeting, 
and learning of the Christian Endeavor work that 
they may see. Similar letters may be obtained now 
and then from the former members of the society. 



Chapter IX 

THE PIANIST 

Why is the work of the pianist important? 

Because by her playing she can make the singing 
successful or a dismal failure, and the singing is one 
of the most important parts of our prayer meetings. 

What is the most important qualification 
for a prayer- meeting pianist? 

Consecration: the sincere desire to praise the 
Lord Jesus and build up His kingdom. 

What is the second essential for the work? 

Skill in playing. Every Christian Endeavor 
pianist has an opportunity before which a great 
concert audience is as nothing. Think who is in our 
Christian Endeavor prayer meeting, where even 
two or three are met together in His name! The 
pianist will practise assiduously, and seek always 
to do her work better and better for the sake of 
Christ. While one that cannot play very well should 
be willing to take the position if no better player is 
available, she should do all she can to become more 
proficient in this great work. 

What is the next essential? 

Thorough familiarity with the hymn-book that is 
41 



42 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 

used by the society. Practise all its pieces over and 
over, so that you will not be caught, no matter 
which one is called for. 

What quality is most valuable in a pianist? 

Decision. Play with briskness and firmness. The 
pianist is the leader of the singing, and must ex- 
hibit the marks of leadership. A weak introduc- 
tion to a song kills it before it begins. 

How are preludes to be used? 

With discrimination. If the song is familiar, 
only the chord should be given. Give it with de- 
cision, pause a second, and then start off the hymn 
with decision. If the hymn is unfamiliar, play it 
through, or enough of it to give an idea of it. 

How are interludes to be used? 

Sparingly; it is well not to play any interlude 
after the first and second stanzas. If the stanzas 
are long and you are to sing all of them, an inter- 
lude after the third stanza may be useful to give a 
chance for getting breath. Usually, however, it is 
enough merely to give the chord as a signal for be- 
ginning the next stanza. Some organists use the 
interlude as a chance to show off, and that is in 
the poorest of taste. 

What is to be done if the society drags? 

Do not race ahead at an impossible distance in 
advance, for then you merely make a confusion out 
of which there is no rescue. Just keep a fraction of 
a beat ahead of the society, and when the stanza is 



THE PIANIST 43 



finished play the hymn over at the desirable speed, 
in the hope that the society will get into the swing 
of it. 

What caution about the number of stanzas 
to be sung? 

The pianist should listen carefully when the 
hymn is announced, and should follow with great 
care the instructions about omitting stanzas. Here 
again the pianist should be a leader. 

What if a hymn is called for inaudibly? 

The pianist should speak up and say, " What 
number, please? " Do not guess at the number, or 
begin to play till you are sure that you have the 
right one. 

How can the pianist aid the society in the 
matter of expression? 

By playing a hymn through with feeling, softer 
and louder, faster and slower, as the thought may 
require. The pianist cannot do this unless she has 
a thorough familiarity with the hymn-book. 

May the pianist ever call for a hymn? 

Certainly, especially when it is plain that the 
leader has not made a careful musical programme, 
and sometimes in the course of a consecration- 
meeting roll-call when music is needed to relieve it. 

When may the pianist start a hymn without 
calling for it? 

This service is particularly valuable, as it gives 



44 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 

much spontaneity to a meeting. If the pianist has 
many hymns in mind, and is able to play them 
from memory, she will greatly aid the meeting by 
often starting a suitable hymn at the close of some 
earnest testimony — a hymn that fits right into 
what has been said. 

What can the pianist do for the general 
musical interests of the society? 

Very much. If there is no music committee, the 
pianist may act as such a committee; and if there 
is a music committee, the pianist will be its chief 
aid. She m£.y organize " sings " in the homes of the 
Endeavorers to practise the songs in the hymnal, 
she may lead the singing at the socials, she may 
obtain solos, duets, and choruses for the meetings. 
She will do all she can to enrich the society with 
melody and praise. 



Chapter X 
THE JUNIOR SUPERINTENDENT 

What is the work of the Junior superin- 
tendent ? 

To carry on the Junior society of Christian En- 
deavor and to interest all others in the work that 
can be interested, so that it will be perpetuated if 
the superintendent has to give it up. 

Who should be Junior superintendent? 

Any one upon whom God has laid the burden of 
care for the children. 

How is the Junior superintendent elected? 

The best way is for the Young People's society to 
nominate the superintendent to the church and the 
church to elect the superintendent among its reg- 
ular officers, just as the Sunday-school superintend- 
ent is elected in most churches. Then the church 
would feel responsible for the maintenance of the 
work. 

Whence will come the money support of the 
society? 

Not much money will be needed, but the church 
should place in its regular budget the small sum 
necessary for the Junior topic cards, hymn-books, 
and the other expenses of a year's Junior work. It 

45 



46 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 

is the most profitable work done in the church, very 
often, as many pastors are glad to testify. 

What help will the Junior superintendent 
get in the work? 

The great help of a Junior committee from the 
Young People's society. Many superintendents 
also have one or more assistant superintendents. 
The committee and assistants should be made re- 
sponsible for definite parts of the work, so as to 
relieve the superintendent wholly of those details. 

To whom will the Junior superintendent 
report ? 

To the Young People's society at each monthly 
business meeting, in order to keep the young people 
interested in the Juniors. Also to the church at the 
annual meetings, and oftener if the pastor desires. 

How much of the work should the Juniors 
themselves do? 

As much as you can get them to do — lead the 
meetings, give the chalk-talks that are given in 
The Christian Endeavor World, play the piano, plan 
the socials, plan the committee work. 

What paper will add to the interest and 
efficiency of the Junior society? 

The Junior Christian Endeavor World, Tremont 
Temple, Boston, costing twenty-five cents a year 
in clubs of ten. It gives one new plan a month for 
each Junior committee and many helps on the 
Junior prayer-meeting topics, including questions 



THE JUNIOR SUPERINTENDENT 47 

to answer, topics to discuss, and talks for the leader. 
In addition, it gives a story each month on one of 
the topics, by Pansy, and many other bright stories 
and serials. 

What practical help has the superintendent 
in her work? 

The Junior manuals published by the United 
Society, written by Mrs. Clark, Mr. Wells, Mr. 
Anderson, and others; also each w T eek in The Chris- 
tan Endeavor World full helps by Mrs. Clark and 
others, including the superintendent's talk, ques- 
tions and illustrations, an object talk, a black- 
hoard picture, a recitation, and things for the Juniors 
to do in the meeting. No one that makes use of this 
material can fail to have a good Junior society. 

How will the superintendent best direct the 
Junior committee work? 

By having the committees one at a time at her 
house, or by having all the committees at once meet 
in different rooms, she meeting with each in turn 
and then calling them all together to report the 
results of their discussions. It is a good plan to have 
on the Junior committee one older Endeavorer for 
each of the Junior committees, to act as adviser. 
These advisers, as far as possible, will be the En- 
deavorers that have become skilled in the kinds of 
work they are to superintend. 

How can you teach the Juniors to pray in 
public? 

By holding little prayer meetings with a few at 
a time — preferably the committees — each one 



48 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 

present to pray in turn. By having the society fol- 
low you in little prayers, a sentence at a time. By 
teaching the Juniors Bible prayers. Dr. Clark has 
compiled a booklet of prayers for Juniors, " Bible 
Prayers and Bible Classics," sold by the United 
Society for ten cents. 

How is the Efficiency Campaign applied to 
Juniors? 

By a unique plan calling for the use of sashes and 
badges, which is explained in the leaflet, " The 
Efficiency Campaign for Juniors," sent by the 
United Society of Christian Endeavor for three 
cents. The carrying out of this plan will do wonders 
for any Junior society. Also by a full set of leaflets 
like this series, only simpler, which is described in 
the leaflet just named. 

How may the Junior superintendent win 
and hold the boys? 

Get some young man to serve as assistant super- 
intendent, or co-superintendent, leading the boys 
in the athletic work, the walks, the making of col- 
lections, the marching, etc., suggested in " The 
Efficiency Campaign for Juniors." 

How can parents be interested in the work? 

By giving them something to do — invite them 
to a definite meeting, send the Juniors to them with 
definite requests. The organization of a Mothers' 
Society of Christian Endeavor will be of the greatest 
assistance in this. See the United Society's ten- 
cent pamphlet on Mothers' societies. 



Chapter XI 

THE 
INTERMEDIATE SUPERINTENDENT 

Why is the work of the Intermediate super- 
intendent important? 

Because she takes the boys and girls at the most 
important transition period of adolescence, the 
period when most conversions are made and most 
characters are fixed for good or evil. 

Why is the Intermediate superintendent's 
work difficult? 

Because of the perplexities attending this period 
of life, its impatience, its perturbations, its fluctu- 
ations, its perverseness, its secrecy, and its impul- 
siveness. Also because of the comparatively short 
time during which she has the young Endeavorers 
before they should be transferred to the older so- 
ciety. 

In what points will the work of the Inter- 
mediate superintendent differ from that of the 
Junior superintendent? 

The Intermediate superintendent will be more a 
power behind the throne. She will leave much to 
the leadership of the Intermediate officers, and will 
strive in every way to develop their initiative. 

49 



50 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 

The meetings of the society will approximate those 
of the older society, and the committee work will 
be modeled upon the committee work of that so- 
ciety as rapidly as may be. 

What prayer-meeting topics should be used 
in the Intermediate society? 

That depends upon the age of the Intermediates. 
Some societies find the Junior topics still the best, 
and some — the majority — take those of the Young 
People's society. The difference is more in the man- 
ner of treatment than the topics. 

How will the Intermediate superintendent 
seek to develop prayer-meeting leaders? 

By encouraging the Intermediates to prepare 
their programmes and get up their meetings with- 
out consulting her; she, however, will watch the 
meetings, and after each one will make a little 
speech, criticising the meeting favorably and un- 
favorably, showing how it could be bettered. 

What are some features that may be intro- 
duced into the meetings to stimulate the 
Intermediates? 

A debate, when the topic admits of it. Two- 
minute talks by the Intermediates. Prayers by all 
the members. An exercise in the starting of hymns 
without the piano. Practice in giving reasons for 
Christian doctrines. 

What are some studies that may be carried 
on in connection with Intermediate work ? 



THE INTERMEDIATE SUPERINTENDENT 5 1 

The Intermediates are just at the age when some 
formal religious studies will appeal to them, as being 
work that their elders are engaged in. The proposal 
to have a mission-study class or a class in evangelis- 
tic methods or Christian evidences or church history 
or civics will be welcomed by them. 

What kinds of committee work will Inter- 
mediates do best? 

The most aggressive and energetic kind. The In- 
termediate societies have proved themselves able 
evangelists among those of their own age — high- 
school age. They may distribute tracts. They may 
organize singing bands for the hospitals and other 
institutions and for outdoor work. They will de- 
light in the work of starting new Intermediate so- 
cieties. 

What kinds of social work will please the 
Intermediates? 

Athletic features will charm the boys. Get some 
fine athlete from the older society to lead them. 
Have contests with other societies. Organize camp- 
ing expeditions, walking tours, bicycle runs, tennis 
tournaments, and the like. For the girls many of 
these same interests are available, modified to suit 
their strength; the girls will also like clubs for vari- 
ous kinds of work or play, such as a reading-club, a 
sewing-club, a musical club. All of these subsidiary 
organizations will be considered branches of the 
society and will report to it. 



52 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 

What kinds of committee work are espe- 
cially adapted to the Intermediate society? 

All the usual kinds, such as lookout, prayer-meet- 
ing, social, and missionary. Also, the Intermediate 
society is a good field for temperance and citizenship 
committees, for press committees, good-literature 
committees, information committees, pastor's aid 
committees, and music committees. 

How will graduation from the society be 
managed ? 

By fixing a regular day for it and making it an 
event, holding a joint meeting with the Young 
People's society. 

How will you determine who should grad- 
uate? 

By establishing a definite list of requirements, as 
that the candidate shall have led a certain number of 
meetings and served on a certain number of com- 
mittees or as an officer, that he shall have done 
good committee work, and shall speak and offer 
prayer readily. A set of test questions may be made 
up from this book, and used to examine the candi- 
dates for graduation. 

Where may more be learned about the du- 
ties of the Intermediate superintendent? 

In Secretary Shaw's pamphlet, " The Intermedi- 
ate Handbook," sold by the United Society of 
Christian Endeavor, Tremont Temple, Boston, for 
ten cents postpaid. 



Chapter XII 
THE LOOKOUT COMMITTEE 

Why is the lookout committee so called? 

Because it is to be on the lookout for all oppor- 
tunities of improving the society. 

What are the two main divisions of the look- 
out committee's work? 

It is to look out for new members, and look out 
for the faithfulness of those already in the society. 

How may the lookout committee look out 
for new members? 

It may well meet and make a list of all the young 
people its members know and can learn about that 
are possible members of the society. Then divide 
these among the members of the committee for each 
to invite to join the society. 

What are some aids that may be used to 
arouss interest in the society? 

A printed invitation card. A printed account of 
the society, its work and its history. The society 
topic card and constitution. A copy of the pledge. 

What personal efforts should be made to 
draw in the young people? 

Call on them. Get them to come to the socials. 

53 



54 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 

Go after them and bring them to the prayer meet- 
ings. 

How can the committee make sure that the 
new members are in earnest? 

Go over the pledge with each one, point by point, 
and explain it. Prepare a list of questions on the 
various clauses of the pledge and have the candi- 
dates answer them in writing. Admit the new 
members on probation, with the understanding 
that they are not full members till they have been 
faithful to the pledge for one month. Give each 
new member a copy of the pledge for his own. Add 
a copy of " The Endeavor Greeting " (published in 
10-cent and 25-cent editions by the United Society ). 
It is an introduction to Christian Endeavor work 
for beginners. The committee may hold a little 
prayer meeting with the new members for the pur- 
pose of discussing and praying about their new 
duties. 

What if a member of the committee fails to 
win the person whom he seeks? 

Then let another member of the committee try, 
and keep on trying with the help of different En- 
deavorers both within and outside the committee. 

How are the new members to be incorporated 
in the society? 

The committee should help them to get something 
to contribute to the meeting and should praise 
their efforts, and lead them on to larger work. Give 



THE LOOKOUT COMMITTEE 55 

them part in preparing for the socials. Assign them 
some definite part in the prayer meetings. The 
work of the committee has only begun when the 
new member joins the society. 

How can the lookout committee watch over 
the members of the society? 

By dividing their names among the members of 
the committee, each to keep a record of the at- 
tendance and participation in the prayer meetings 
of the Endeavorers assigned to him. This record 
should be sent monthly to each member, and should 
be summarized, without names, in the committee's 
report. Each member of the committee should seek 
to aid the religious development of those assigned to 
him. 

How can the pledge be kept before the mem- 
bers of the society? 

Have a large-type copy hanging in the meeting- 
room. Have the pledge repeated in concert at the 
beginning of each consecration meeting, and when 
the new members join. At each consecration meet- 
ing have a different clause of the pledge discussed 
and emphasized by a good speaker. 

What can the lookout committee do for the 
associates? 

It can spur them to regular attendance by careful 
and prompt inquiries after all absences. It can 
give them definite work to do in the meeting, such 
as reading verses or answering written questions. 



56 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 

It can have them placed on committees as assist- 
ants. It can urge active membership upon them. 
Above all, it can urge upon them individually and 
often the call of Christ to open confession of Him 
and membership in His church. 

What is the duty of the lookout committee 
with regard to the consecration meeting? 

To see every absentee that did not send a message, 
and learn the reason for the failure. Do not wait 
for three consecutive unexcused absences, but give 
a warning after each one. 

What will the lookout committee need most 
in order to do its work well ? 

Love — love of God, and love of those for whom 
its members work. Love of God will lead to prayer, 
and prayer will lead to faith and confidence and 
fidelity. Love of the other Endeavorers will pro- 
duce patience and earnestness and tactfulness and 
perseverance. 

What is a good motto for this committee? 

11 I am my brothers keeper." 

Where can you learn fully about the com- 
mittee work ? 

•In the pamphlet, " On the Lookout," a manual of 
lookout-committee work, sold by the United Society 
of Christian Endeavor, Tremont Temple, Boston. 
Sent postpaid for ten cents. 



Chapter XIII 

THE 
PRAYER-MEETING COMMITTEE 

What objects will the prayer-meeting com- 
mittee set before it? 

To improve constantly the Christian Endeavor 
prayer meeting, and to further the private devo- 
tional life that leads to the improvement of the 
prayer meeting. 

What should characterize the membership 
of this committee? 

In the first place, deep personal devotion to Jesus 
Christ; then, readiness to express that loyalty 
openly on all suitable occasions. The committee 
must itself go the way it points out to the other 
Endeavorers. Further, the committee should be 
wide-awake, inventive, persevering, and tactful. 

What is the first duty of the committee? 

To obtain topic cards, one for each member. A 
very useful form is the leaflet published by the 
United Society of Christian Endeavor giving daily 
readings. At a slight additional cost pages will be 
added giving the officers and committees of the 
local society. The United Society has also an unex- 
celled supply of ornamental cards, and its sale of 
57 



58 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 

these is one of its main sources of revenue for carry- 
ing on its work for the societies and the churches. 

What is the next duty of the prayer -meeting 
committee? 

To appoint the leaders. These leaders should be 
appointed six months ahead, and a list of them 
should be posted in the society meeting- room. 

How should the leaders be trained? 

They should be called together at the beginning 
of the six months and addressed by an experienced 
worker, who will give them practical advice about 
conducting meetings. The committee will add sug- 
gestions and will answer the leaders* questions. 
Different members of the committee will be assigned 
to the different leaders to help them plan their 
meetings. Each leader should receive a copy of the 
leader's leaflet of suggestions in this Efficiency 
series (one cent each in quantities; sample copy, 
two cents). 

What is to be done if the leader of a meeting 
fails to appear? 

The chairman or some other member of the com- 
mittee will take charge of the meeting promptly, 
and do the best he can. 

What is the value of the short prayer service 
which many prayer-meeting committees hold 
with the leader just before the society 
meeting ? 

As all kneel and offer prayer in turn for the 



THE PRAYER-MEETING COMMITTEE 59 

meeting, the leader is strengthened by the conscious- 
ness of divine support and the support of his com- 
rades. Many a leader has received in this little 
meeting courage to pray and testify freely. 

How may the committee get more prayers 
into the prayer meeting? 

By offering prayers themselves. By going to a 
number of members that do not pray in the meet- 
ings and asking them to do so. By forming " prayer 
trios," saying to some timid member, " I will pray 
first, and then do you follow, and as soon as you are 
through a second member of our committee will 
offer prayer." 

Who should call for sentence prayers? 

These should be called for at least once in every 
meeting, and the prayer-meeting committee (any 
member) may call for them, unless arrangement 
has been made with the leader to do so. 

What is a memory meeting? 

One in which the leader and all that take part use 
their memories entirely, no books being in the room, 
and no written or printed paper. 

What is a leaderless meeting? 

One with a programme placed before the society 
on a blackboard and followed from beginning to 
end without direction from a leader or the com- 

What is committee leadership? 



60 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 

All the members of the committee sit in front of 
the society and divide among them the work of 
leading. 

What is dual leadership? 

Two Endeavorers, one experienced and the other 
a beginner, sit together before the society and divide 
among them the work of leading. 

What will freshen up a prayer meeting? 

Placing the chairs in unusual positions. Holding 
the meeting out of doors, or in an unusual room, or 
at an unusual time, as early in the morning. Adopt- 
ing any novelty, such as a blackboard talk, or an 
object talk, or an essay on the subject, or a recita- 
tion or dialogue. One such novelty is given for each 
prayer-meeting topic week by week in The Christian 
Endeavor World. 

How can the committee lead the members 
to take part in original ways? 

By giving to the beginners written questions on 
the topic (these are furnished weekly in The Chris- 
tian Endeavor World)) by dealing with them per- 
sonally and urging them to add something of their 
own to everything they quote. 

Where can the committee learn more about 
this work? 

In the book, " Prayer- Meeting Methods," the 
fullest collection of prayer-meeting plans ever 
made. It is sent postpaid for 35 cents by the United 
Society of Christian Endeavor, Tremont Temple, 
Boston. 



Chapter XIV 
THE MISSIONARY COMMITTEE 

What is the work of the missionary com- 
mittee ? 

To promote the missionary interest of the soci- 
ety — the missionary meetings, mission-study, giv- 
ing to missions, praying for missions, and the actual 
doing of missionary work. 

What kind of persons should make up the 
committee? 

Mainly those that are already missionary en- 
thusiasts, but a few that know little about missions 
may be added in order that they may catch the fire. 

How large should the committee be? 

As there are twelve missionary meetings in the 
year, it is well to have a committee of twelve, each 
to lead one of these meetings. 

What is the plan of mission bands? 

It divides the entire society into twelve bands, 
each under the leadership of a member of the mis* 
sionary committee. Each band is responsible for 
one of the missionary meetings, and will study upon 
it through the year till its turn comes. Such mis- 
sionary meetings will shine ! 
61 



62 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 



How may the missionary committee be 
organized ? 

By dividing among its members the work to be 
done, so as to place each member in charge of one 
division of it. One member, for instance, will try to 
increase the missionary giving of the society, an- 
other will have charge of the missionary reading, a 
third of the mission-study class, etc. 

What are some elements that should enter 
into every missionary meeting? 

The use of the map, with a map-talk about the 
country, and with the pointing out of every locality 
mentioned during the evening. The introduction 
of any topic of timely interest, such as current 
events will suggest. Speaking without the use of 
book, paper, or manuscript. The use of pictures, 
curios, music from the land under discussion, native 
costumes, tableaux, and the like. At the close, a 
brisk " quiz," reviewing the principal points that 
have been brought out. 

How may the committee get the Endeavorers 
interested in missionary reading? 

Have a missionary library. Use also the mission- 
ary books in the Sunday-school and public libraries. 
Make envelope collections of interesting clippings 
to be used in connection with the meetings. Offer a 
reward to be given to the one that will read in three 
months the largest number and the best-selected 
list of missionary books and magazines. Form 
mission reading-circles. Have some of the most in- 



THE MISSIONARY COMMITTEE 63 



teresting missionary books reviewed in the meetings 
and at once loaned. 

How may the mission- study course be con- 
ducted? 

Send to the United Society of Christian Endeavor, 
Tremont Temple, Boston, for a list of the text- 
books now ready. They cover most mission fields, 
home and foreign, and are intensely interesting. 
Appoint a leader, who need not be a fine missionary 
scholar, but only a good executive. Every member 
of the class must have the text-book. Eight weekly 
lessons will complete the course. Every book will 
tell the leader how to carry on the work. 

How can you increase the missionary giving 
of the society? 

By urging membership in the Tenth Legion — 
the United Society enrollment of those that make 
it a rule to give to religious work at least a tenth of 
their incomes. This is on the same principle that 
leads us to keep sacred to God one-seventh of our 
time — it causes us to use for God more of all our 
time than we otherwise should. 

Is it advisable for the society to have special 
objects to which to give? 

The society should give to its denominational mis- 
sion boards, whose work, as members of the church, 
they are bound to support. If those boards are 
willing to assign special objects for the gifts of the 
societies, it will be well to adopt one or more of them. 



64 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 

How may prayer for missions be stimulated ? 

Many missionary boards publish prayer cycles, 
which the Endeavorers may be urged to observe. 
Each Endeavorer may be urged to choose one mis- 
sionary for whom, and his field, the Endeavorer will 
pray daily. 

How may the socials be used to increase 
interest ? 

Socials built along missionary lines may be given 
by the missionary committee joined with the social 
committee; for instance, a Japanese social with 
Japanese decorations, costumes, booths, games, 
songs, reading, and refreshments. 

What example should the missionary com- 
mittee set? 

It should itself do all these things — read, study, 
give, and pray. 

What missionary work may be done by the 
society ? 

It may teach English to foreigners, send cheery 
letters to missionaries, co-operate with city missions, 
fill, missionary boxes, make friends with all that do 
not know Christ and seek to lead them to Him. 

Where will the missionary committee learn 
more about its work? 

In the very complete " Missionary Manual," 
sent postpaid for 35 cents by the United Society of 
Christian Endeavor, Tremont Temple, Boston. 



Chapter XV 
THE SOCIAL COMMITTEE 

Why is the social committee so named? 
Because it is to be social itself, and inspire others 
to be social. It is the committee of friendliness. 

What are the fields of its operations? 

Not merely the society socials, but also the prayer 
meetings, the church services, and the home life of 
the Endeavorers. 

How large should the committee be? 

It should be one of the largest in the society, be- 
cause its work is so varied and reaches out so far. 
If the committee consists of the usual number, 
three, it should seek to enlist all the rest of the 
society as helpers. 

What kind of persons should be placed upon 
the committee? 

Social persons — those that are not afraid to 
talk to strangers, those that have the power to make 
others feel at home and to bring out the best that 
is in them. 

In what spirit will the social committee do 
its work? 

In the spirit of love and service, as Christ went 

65 



66 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 



to the marriage feast of Cana. The work of the 
social committee should be as religious as that of 
the prayer-meeting committee. It will be " social 
to save," seeking to get close to people in order to 
bring them close to Christ. In this spirit every social 
will be planned. 

What if the amusements of the town are on 
a low plane? 

There is all the more need of the work of a 
Christian Endeavor social committee to elevate 
them, to win the young people from the doubtful 
amusements and show them that they can have a 
gloriously good time in ways of which Christ would 
approve. 

Therefore what kinds of amusements should 
be banished from Christian Endeavor socials? 

" Kissing games," and all other games that bring 
boys and girls into undue familiarity. Gambling 
games, dances, and every other form of amusement 
that is hurtful. Late hours should not be kept, nor 
should costly and elaborate preparations be made. 
The best socials are simple and inexpensive. 

Should refreshments be served at Christian 
Endeavor socials? 

Not always. Do not let the Endeavorers come to 
feel that they cannot have a good time without eat- 
ing and drinking. Nevertheless it is true that eating 
and drinking brings people closer together; and if 
the refreshments are simple and inexpensive, it is a 
good plan to have them at perhaps every alternate 
social. 



THE SOCIAL COMMITTEE 67 

How will the refreshments and the other 
expenses of the social committee be provided 
for? 

If they are kept at the lowest point, the society 
may pay them out of its treasury from the contribu- 
tions of the members — that is, provided the larger 
part of the gifts goes to society expenses and to 
missions. Some societies raise money for socials by 
a cake and candy sale once a year or by giving a pay 
entertainment. 

Should an admission fee to the socials be 
charged? 

Never, unless sometimes a merely nominal fee to 
add to the fun, such as a cent for every foot of one's 
height. It must be made as easy for the poor as the 
rich to attend our socials. 

How should the socials begin? 

With some amusement that will set every one to 
playing, such as matching halves of proverbs or 
quotations, or seeing who will get the largest num- 
ber of autographs in a given time or say " How do 
you do? " to the largest number of persons, receiving 
from each a card bearing his number. 

How should the socials end? 

With the singing of a few songs and with a word 
of prayer and the benediction. 

What sort of amusements should make up 
the greater part of a Christian Endeavor 
social? 



68 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 

Those that are worth while, that quicken wits and 
add to information and strengthen character. There 
are a large number of such amusements, and they 
are more interesting than the more frivolous games, 
though some lighter amusements may be introduced 
for the sake of variety. No amusements should be 
allowed of which the pastor and church do not 
approve. 

Where may one learn about good amuse- 
ments for the Christian Endeavor socials? 

In the three books of socials published by the 
United Society, " Social Evenings/' " Social to 
Save," and " Eighty Pleasant Evenings," sent post- 
paid for thirty-five cents each. 

How will the social tone of the society be 
maintained outside the socials? 

The social committee will speak to all strangers 
and new members, and introduce them to others 
and try to make every one feel at home in the 
society. 

How may the work of the social committee 
be extended to the homes? 

By the organization of " group socials" or " neigh- 
borhood socials," in which the young people of one 
neighborhood meet together, or sometimes one 
group goes for an evening to a home in some other 
and distant neighborhood and meets that neighbor- 
hood group. The purpose in it all is to break down 
cliques and the caste spirit, and to unite all the En- 
deavorers as brothers and sisters in Christ. 



Chapter XVI 
THE MUSIC COMMITTEE 

What is the work of the music committee? 

To arrange for the playing of the piano or organ 
in the society meetings, to. further in every way the 
musical interests of the society, and to lead tht 
Endeavorers to be helpful with music for outside 
causes. 

How large should the music committee be? 

Usually three, but it may be larger or smaller, 
according to the size of the society and the work 
the committee finds to do. 

What kind of persons should be placed upon 
this committee? 

While the committee should, of course, have upon 
it one or two persons of musical ability, it is more 
necessary that its members, and especially its chair- 
man, should have musical enthusiasm and good 
executive ability than that they should be musicians 
themselves. The committee is not so much to sing 
and play as to get others to sing and play. 

How will pianists be provided ? 

The society may choose one person to be pianist 
for the year or the half year, just as it chooses any 
other officer; or, the music committee may select 
69 



70 expert Endeavor 

one pianist; or, the committee may appoint all the 
members of the society that can play to serve as 
pianists in their turn. In any case the music com- 
mittee will see that the place is filled during the 
temporary absence of the pianist. 

In regard to the singing and other music of 
the meetings, what relation has the music 
committee to the leaders of the meetings? 

The chairman of the music committee will always 
consult with the leader of each meeting, and the 
two will arrange for the music together. Generally 
the special music will be supplied by the music com- 
mittee, but the leader will decide where it is to come 
in his programme. Also, the leader will consult with 
the music committee as to the ordinary singing, and 
the committee will suggest ways of brightening it. 
The music committee should not interfere with the 
plans of the leader by springing musical features 
upon him without warning. 

What kinds of special musical features may 
the music committee provide for the meet- 
ings? 

Solos, duets, quartettes, and choruses; also in- 
strumental solos — violin, violoncello, flute, and 
piano; but the latter should be sacred music always. 
See that the special music harmonizes with the 
subject of the meeting. For instance, a missionary 
hymn sung as a solo is better for a missionary meet- 
ing than an elaborate solo that has no missionary 
bearing. 



THE MUSIC COMMITTEE 7 1 

How may the committee arouse interest in 
the general singing of the society? 

By holding " sings " at private houses, for be- 
coming familiar with the less-known pieces of the 
hymn-book. By appointing some good, enthusiastic 
singer as musical director of the society, that he 
may stand before the society and lead the singing. 

What warning should be given this musical 
director? 

That he is not to make the prayer meeting a 
singing-class. Whatever instructions he gives as to 
the singing of a hymn should be so brief and pointed 
as not to interfere with the spiritual effect of the 
hymn. He will lead more by his own singing and 
by drilling singers outside the prayer meeting than 
by drill in the meeting. 

What special hymns may be chosen? 

A society hymn, selected by vote of the members, 
to be sung on all formal occasions. A memory 
hymn every month, to be committed to memory 
and sung at every meeting. (The Christian En- 
deavor World has for years given the history of one 
memory hymn each month.) A consecration 
hymn, to be sung at each consecration meeting. A 
missionary hymn, to be sung at each missionary 
meeting of the year. Committee hymns, to be 
chosen by each committee, a verse to be sung after 
each committee report at the business meetings. 

What use may be made of a society chorus 
or glee club? 



72 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 

It may sing a hymn by itself at each meeting. 
It may furnish special music for socials and enter- 
tainments. It may aid in the singing at the church 
meetings. It will furnish a nucleus of trained singers 
to carry through with vigor the singing at the 
prayer meetings. 

What outside causes may be helped by the 
music committee? 

It may group the Endeavorers to aid the singing 
in the church prayer meetings and the Sunday- 
evening services. It may organize regular song 
services in the hospitals, old ladies' homes, prisons, 
etc. It may carry on the song service at outdoor 
evangelistic meetings. Carols may be sung in the 
streets on Easter, Christmas, and New Year's 
mornings. 

What is the chief peril of the music com- 
mittee? 

That of falling into a rut. Endless variety may 
be introduced into the singing, if the committee will 
use its wits. 

Where may the music committee find many 
other plans for its work? 

In " Christian Endeavor Grace-Notes," a pam- 
phlet sent postpaid for ten cents by the United 
Society of Christian Endeavor, Boston. 



Chapter XVII 
THE FLOWER COMMITTEE 

What is the first thing for a flower committee 
to do? 

Take account of its resources. Canvass the mem- 
bers and friends of the society, and see what mate- 
rial for church decoration is available — potted 
plants soon to come into bloom, ferns, and garden 
flowers or vines, and the like. Make a list of these. 

Why is money sometimes needed for the 
work of the committee? 

Because during the coldest months we may need 
to fall back upon the florist; but even then, if the 
committee is industrious in raising flowers, this will 
not be necessary. 

How may the flower committee get money? 

By private subscription. By a special church 
collection. By placing in the pews little envelopes 
marked " For the Pulpit Flowers," to be filled and 
added to the regular collection. By keeping in the 
church vestibule a box marked " Flower Offering," 
with a slit in the top. By a flower entertainment 
to which admission is charged. 

How can we make the older church-mem- 
bers ready to give for this cause? 

73 



74 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 

By making known, through the pastor and the 
church paper and in other ways, the good uses of 
the flowers in addition to their beautifying the 
church. 

How can flowers be raised? 

Each member of the committee may cultivate a 
flower garden. All the society may be set to raising 
Christian Endeavor flowers. You may offer a re- 
ward for the best garden or the best flower-bed or 
the finest specimen of a potted plant. You may dis- 
tribute packages of flower seeds or bulbs to be raised. 
You may have an exhibition of flowering plants 
raised by the members. You may have a flower 
social once a year, the admission fee to be a flower- 
ing plant raised by the member bringing it. 

How may we draw from the fields and the 
woods? 

By making free use of the beautiful wild flowers 
in their season. By using such material as wild 
vines, sheaves of wheat, stalks of corn, autumn 
leaves, branches of evergreens, bright berries and 
rose pips, grasses, " pussy-willows," " cat-tails," 
and the like. 

How may we use mottoes ? 

By asking the pastor what the subject of his ser- 
mon will be, and submitting to him a motto, per- 
haps his text. After he passes upon it, make the 
letters, cutting them out of pasteboard and covering 
them with evergreen or with gilt or silver paper, 



THE FLOWER COMMITTEE 75 

and place the whole back of the pulpit on the 
wall. 

How may we use the flowers when Sunday 
is over? 

By taking them to the sick of the church and 
the community, and to hospitals. By giving them 
to the old people and other shut-ins. By sending 
flowers to the pastor and the pastor's wife on their 
birthdays. By remembering thus the birthdays of 
the church officers and others whom we wish to 
honor. By sending flowers to the public-school 
graduates. By putting them in the prisons and 
other places where they may minister in quiet ways. 
By using them as rewards for especially good com- 
mittee work, or especially regular attendance. By 
welcoming with them the new members that enter 
the society. By pinning a buttonhole bouquet on 
every Endeavorer to signalize some meeting. 

How may we enhance the value of these 
flower gifts? 

By taking them in person, and by giving with 
them some written message of love and cheer. 
Always give them in the name of the society. 

How may this work be divided up? 

Let the members of the committee be responsible 
in turn for the church decorations and for the dis- 
posal of the flowers afterwards. Get the members of 
the society to take this work in turn, under the 
direction and with the aid of the committee. Let 



76 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 

the society vote which Sunday of the year saw the 
church decorated in the prettiest way. Give some 
reward for this. 

What may the flower committee do in the 
church yard? 

It may tend the walks, and cut the grass, where 
this is not provided for by the church. It may make 
and care for flower-beds. It may set out flowering 
shrubs and hedges and trees. All this, of course, 
will be done with the approval of the church officers 
and the pastor. 

Where are fuller plans for the flower com- 
mittee to be found ? 

In " The Flower Committee's Summary," a 
thirty-two page pamphlet which is sold by the 
United Society of Christian Endeavor, Tremont 
Temple, Boston, for five cents, postpaid. 

In what spirit should the flower committee 
work? 

In love for God's beautiful world and a desire to 
bring that beauty to others, that it may speak to 
them of the love of our Father in heaven. 



Chapter XVIII 

THE INFORMATION COMMITTEE 

What is the object of the information com- 
mittee ? 

To give the society information about the progress 
of the Christian Endeavor society in all parts of the 
world, and to tell them about new methods of 
Christian Endeavor work; also to report the most 
important news concerning the denomination and 
the progress of the church of Christ in the world. 

Why is this committee important? 

Because there is no inspiration without informa- 
tion. Because what we know about we are likely 
to be interested in and to work for. 

Of how many should the committee consist? 

That depends upon the size of the society; usually 
three members will be right but if the society is 
small you may have only one member. 

How should the committee be made up? 

Those should be placed upon the committee that 
are best informed regarding Christian Endeavor, or 
at least the chairman of the committee should be 
such a person. The committee should be able to 
recognize good news, and to present it in a bright, 
attractive way. 

77 



78 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 

How often should this committee report? 

At every prayer meeting, as a rule, taking the 
first five minutes of the meeting after the opening 
song and before the leader's remarks on the topic. 
Most consecration meetings, however, are so 
crowded that the report of the information commit- 
tee may well be omitted. 

Who will call for the report of the committee ? 

You should have a regular programme for the 
meeting given to the leader, containing a list of the 
features of the meeting that are not to be omitted, 
though the leader may vary the order as he pleases. 
Having this programme before him, the leader will 
be quite sure to call for the report of the informa- 
tion committee. If he neglects to do so, the presi- 
dent of the society should remind him of the omis- 
sion; and if the president also forgets it, the chair- 
man or any member of the information committee 
may rise and say, " The information committee 
has not given its report." Such a deferred report 
may be made during the meeting, but it is better if 
given at the beginning. 

When the committee has several members, 
who should make the report? 

The members will take turns in making the re- 
port, as they may agree beforehand; but the chair- 
man will have general supervision of the matter, 
and will always be ready to report if the member 
fails whose duty it is. Besides, the chairman may 



THE INFORMATION COMMITTEE 79 

sometimes add to the report made by a member 
of the committee. 

How long a report should be given? 

Never longer than five minutes; less than that, 
if the news does not call for five minutes. Never 
pad it. 

Where will the committee get its informa- 
tion ? 

From The Christian Endeavor World and other 
Christian Endeavor papers, and from the denomi- 
national and other religious periodicals, including 
the missionary magazines. In The Christian En- 
deavor World there is always a section of the Table 
of Contents pointing out certain articles as con- 
taining good material for the information committee. 

What kinds of news items should be chosen? 

Those that are of striking interest, such as when 
Christian Endeavor reaches a new country, when 
some new campaign or special effort is proposed, 
when a new method is reported, when some unusual 
or conspicuously good work is related; also similar 
items in regard to the general work of the church. 

In what manner should the report be given? 

The speaker should come forward and face the 
society, thus winning far more attention. He should 
never read from a paper, either a printed paper 
or his own writing, but he should get the facts 
firmly in mind, then speak them in his own words; 
this is immeasurably the most effective way. He 



80 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 

should be brisk, and should now and then intro- 
duce a bit of fun to enliven what he says. He should 
be practical, and should apply the information to 
his own society. He should speak clearly and 
earnestly. He should practise making his report 
before he comes to the meeting. 

What are some variations of the report 
that will be of interest? 

Sometimes all three members may stand before 
the society, and each will give in his turn a brief 
report. Sometimes the report will be placed before 
the society in the form of a clearly printed placard, 
bearing statistics or other information best presented 
in that way. Sometimes the speaker will ask the 
society to repeat after him some of the facts given, 
to impress them on the memory. Sometimes the 
speaker will conduct a quiz on the information 
given for a month back. Sometimes the committee 
will take a new country every week for several 
months. Much of the success of this committee 
will depend upon the original inventiveness that is 
put into the work. 



Chapter XIX 

THE SUNDAY-SCHOOL COMMITTEE 

What is the work of the Sunday-school 
committee ? 

It is twofold: to help the Sunday school through 
the Christian Endeavor society, and to help the 
Christian Endeavor society through the Sunday 
school. 

How large should the committee be? 

From one member upward, depending upon the 
size of the society, the available material for the 
committee, and the work the committee finds to do. 
Three is the usual number. 

Who should be placed upon the committee ? 

Those familiar with both the Christian Endeavor 
and the Sunday-school work, especially the older 
Endeavorers that can teach Sunday-school classes 
acceptably, and will have the confidence of the 
Sunday-school superintendent and be a real help to 
him and to the teachers. 

What should be the relation between this 
committee and the Sunday-school officers and 
teachers? 

The committee will simply offer itself to help 
them in every way, and will make suggestions of 
81 



82 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 

what it may do if the work is desired ; but it will not 
attempt any task without the hearty approval of 
all the Sunday-school workers concerned, whether 
superintendent, teachers, or others. 

What, in most cases, is the most useful 
work the committee may do? 

Furnishing substitute teachers for the Sunday- 
school classes. For this purpose the committee may 
constitute itself the nucleus of a class of Endeavorers 
and others who each Sunday will study in the school, 
under a good teacher, the lesson for the next Sunday, 
so as to be ready to teach the lesson the next Sunday 
as substitutes. Whether this is done or not, the 
committee should form a list of all that will agree to 
act as substitute teachers, as a general thing, when 
called upon, and will obtain the services of one of 
these teachers when it knows in advance that any 
teacher is to be absent. 

What else may the committee do to help 
the Sunday-school superintendent? 

It may organize and drill a Sunday-school choir. 
It may see to the decorating of the Sunday-school 
room with flowers. It may aid in the preparation 
for Sunday-school concerts and Christmas and 
other entertainments. It may lead in an effort to 
get for the school some needed piece of apparatus, 
such as a stereopticon. It may serve as a picnic 
committee. It may help in the school advertising, in 
the papers, by circulars, and by posters. It may 
get books for the library. 



THE SUNDAY-SCHOOL COMMITTEE 83 

How may the committee increase the at- 
tendance of the school ? 

By conducting a systematic canvass of the town 
for new pupils. By canvassing the Christian En- 
deavor society for the same purpose. By organ- 
izing an attendance contest in the school itself. 

How may the committee help the teachers 
and the school? 

By taking lists of absent scholars and visiting 
their homes to learn the reasons for their absence. 
By studying lessons with the backward pupils and 
helping them on. By giving class socials. By aiding 
the teachers to make apparatus for teaching. 

How may the committee advertise the Sun- 
day school in the Young People's society 
meetings ? 

By speaking now and then of the interesting work 
the school is doing. By introducing into their 
prayer-meeting talks references to the current 
Sunday-school lessons. By getting the Sunday- 
school superintendent to lead an occasional Chris- 
tian Endeavor prayer meeting. 

How can the committee increase the mem- 
bership of the Christian Endeavor society? 

By canvassing the Sunday school for members, 
taking all the classes of suitable age. If the com- 
mittee helps the teachers, the teachers should be 
willing and glad to help Christian Endeavor by 
urging membership in the society upon their pupils. 



84 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 

The committee may urge the teachers to make 
frequent references in their teaching to the work of 
the society, and also to the current prayer-meeting 
topics. 

What help can the Sunday-school superin- 
tendent give to the society? 

He can give the Christian Endeavor notices 
clearly and interestingly. He can urge membership? 
in the society from the desk. He can recognize 
publicly the work the Sunday-school committee, 
and the society as a whole, is doing to help him. 

How is the work of the Sunday school to be 
separated from that of the Christian Endeavor 
society? 

The Sunday school is for Bible-study; the Chris- 
tian Endeavor society, for religious training. The 
first is for impression, and the second for expression. 
The Christian Endeavor society has no time for 
teaching the Bible, and the Sunday school has no 
time for training in prayer-meeting testimony, in 
public prayers, in mission-study, in the leading of 
meetings, in the conduct of business meetings, in 
the many activities of the Christian Endeavor com- 
mittees and officers. 

Where can the committee find full direc- 
tions for its work? 

In" Sunday-School Endeavors," a pamphlet sent, 
postpaid, for ten cents by the United Society of 
Christian Endeavor, Tremont Temple, Boston. 



Chapter XX 
THE JUNIOR COMMITTEE 

What is the work of the Junior committee? 

To help the Junior superintendent carry on the 
work of the Junior Christian Endeavor society. To 
conduct that society if there is no Junior superin- 
tendent or in her temporary absence. 

Why have a Junior committee? 

Because the work of carrying on a Junior society 
is too heavy for one person. Because the superin- 
tendent may get sick or move away, or other con- 
tingencies may arise, leaving the Junior society 
without a superintendent; and in that case the 
Junior committee will carry on the work till another 
superintendent can be found. Many hundreds, 
even thousands, of Junior societies have been 
abandoned for a time, and sometimes altogether, 
just for the lack of a Junior committee. 

Of whom should the Junior committee 
consist? 

Of the members of the Young People's society 
(including the graduate members) that have any 
knowledge or inspiration or guidance for the Jun- 
iors. Endeavorers of the widest varieties of abil- 
ities will be useful on this committee. 
85 



86 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 



How large should the committee be? 

It should contain as many members as can or 
will do work in the Junior society, and it may well 
vary in size from time to time as the number of 
available workers varies. 

Who will be the chairman of the Junior 
committee? 

Some one with good executive ability, who can 
set others to work and keep them at it. Do not make 
the Junior superintendent chairman, for you want 
to relieve her of all the work you can ; but the chair- 
man of the committee will be in close touch with 
the superintendent, and will become temporary 
superintendent when the superintendent is away 
or is sick (unless, that is, the Junior society has an 
assistant superintendent ) . 

What may the Junior committee do for the 
Junior meeting? 

One of its members may play the piano and lead 
the singing, serving also as the adviser and super- 
intendent of the Junior music committee. Another 
member who has a knowledge of missions and zeal 
for them may supervise the work of the Junior 
missionary committee and help to make the Junior 
missionary meetings successful. Another may have 
charge of the Bible work of the Juniors. Another 
may give an object lesson or a chalk- talk in every 
meeting. Another may keep order, sitting in the 
back of the room. Another may take in hand the 
temperance meetings. And so on. Of course, if 



THE JUNIOR COMMITTEE 



you cannot get workers for all this, you will get 
what you can. 

What may the Junior committee do for the 
committee work of the Juniors? 

It will furnish persons expert and trained along 
these lines of work to act as directors of the various 
Junior committees. For example, some one skilled 
in planning and managing socials will be placed on 
the committee, for the purpose of helping the Junior 
social committee to get up Junior socials of many 
kinds. Some skilled worker in the Young People's 
prayer meeting will be a member of the Junior com- 
mittee, and will aid the Junior prayer-meeting 
committee and the leaders of the Junior prayer 
meeting. Some Endeavorer who has done good 
work on the lookout committee of the older so- 
ciety will be placed on the Junior committee, and 
will show the Junior lookout committee how to do 
good work. 

How will the Junior committee aid the 
Junior officers? 

It may contain an ex-president of the Young 
People's society, who will show the Junior presi- 
dent how to do his work, and especially how to 
conduct business meetings. He will also drill the 
Junior society in parliamentary law. Another mem- 
ber of the committee may be detailed to help the 
Junior treasurer and another to aid the Junior 
secretary. 

How will the Junior committee interest the 
older Endeavorers in the Junior society? 



88 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 



By its regular reports at the business meetings of 
the older society, setting forth the work the Juniors 
are doing and asking the prayers and the sympathy 
and the active co-operation of the older Endeav- 
orers. 

How will the Junior committee interest the 
church in the Junior society? 

By getting the co-operation of the pastor, and by 
reporting the work of the Juniors now and then in 
the church prayer meetings and other church meet- 
ings. 

How will the Junior committee help in the 
matter of the finances of the Junior society? 

It may obtain a regular grant from the treasury of 
the church, which should support the Junior work 
just as much as it supports the primary department 
of the Sunday school. If the Junior society gives 
entertainments to raise money for any purpose, the 
Junior committee will be very helpftil there. 

What authority will the Junior committee 
have? 

No authority at all, unless it takes the place of a 
superintendent. If there is a superintendent, she 
is responsible for the Junior society and has all 
necessary authority, the Junior committee acting 
as her ready and willing subordinates, as closely co- 
operating friends. Acting in this spirit, it will do a 
work not second in importance to that of any other 
committee in the Young People's society. 



Chapter XXI 
THE FINANCE COMMITTEE 

What work is committed to the finance 
committee ? 

It is to help the treasurer and the missionary 
committee, stimulate the giving of the society, and 
collect the money necessary for the society expenses 
and the missionary gifts of the society. 

How large should the committee be? 

Three members is enough, unless the society is 
very large. Even one member will greatly aid the 
treasurer. 

What should be the characteristics of the 
members of a finance committee? 

They should be resourceful, tactful, and per- 
sistent. They should realize the importance of 
giving as a Christian grace, and the importance of 
money for the furtherance of the kingdom of God. 
They should realize also that the habits of giving 
formed in youth are likely to remain in after life, so 
that the training given in the Christian Endeavor 
society in this regard is of the greatest value for the 
future church. 

What is the foundation of the work of the 
finance committee? 

89 



90 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 

The society budget — a carefully prepared list of 
society expenses that may be expected to occur, and 
of the gifts to missions and to other good causes 
that the society desires to make during the year. 
This budget will be drawn up by the executive 
committee and voted by the society. It should not 
be so ambitious that the society cannot carry it out 
and will therefore be disappointed and discouraged; 
neither should it be so small as to give no incentive 
to earnest work and no spur to progress. 

What is the best system of raising money 
for the finance committee to work upon? 

The pledge-envelope system, according to which 
each member of the society is approached with a 
card bearing figures from 1 up to perhaps 25. These 
represent the number of cents the Endeavorer is 
willing to contribute each month toward the budget. 
The Endeavorer checks off a number and receives a 
package of twelve little envelopes, each bearing the 
number that is assigned to him. He fills an envelope 
with the promised sum at each consecration meet- 
ing and places it in the collection-box. The treasurer 
knows his number on the envelope and credits him 
with the sum. 

What if the member from force of circum- 
stances becomes unable to pay his pledge? 

He is then to be released from it promptly and 
cordially. 

What is the duty of the finance committee 
in carrying out this pledge- envelope plan? 



THE FINANCE COMMITTEE 9 1 

To divide up the society among them under the 
direction of the treasurer, and to see every member 
of the society and obtain a pledge for some amount, 
however small. These amounts are to be kept 
secret by the committee, only their aggregates be- 
ing told to the society. 

What is the duty of the finance committee 
during the year with reference to this pledge 
plan? 

To keep it in operation under the direction of the 
treasurer by calling upon each member that is in 
arrears and asking him to pay up. 

How should this be done so as not to offend ? 

Ascribe the omission to forgetfulness. Say to the 
member, " The treasurer has given me a list of 
those that have forgotten to keep up their pledge 
payments, and it is my duty to collect them. But 
it is a pleasant duty in your case, because I know 
you will be glad to square your account." 

What is a good Eye- gate reminder of this 
duty? 

A list of the numbers assigned to the members 
placed before them on a blackboard or a large sheet 
of paper, after each number being placed a state- 
ment of account, such as, " Paid up," or, " Due, 
20 cents." 

What if the member insists that he has 
made his payments, but has not been properly 
credited with them? 



92 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 

If the finance committee has been active in fol- 
lowing up failures to pay, the dispute will arise re- 
garding only one payment. Let the matter pass 
then, but watch that member with much care for 
the future! 

What instructions may the committee 
wisely obtain from the society? 

Definite instructions to see each member within 
two weeks after any failure in his payments. If this 
rule is made by the society, the committee will not 
be blamed for its promptness in " dunning " the 
delinquent. 

What is to be done if one member of the 
committee fails to make a collection? 

Send another member of the committee to the 
same person; he may prove more successful. 

Need receipts be given for these monthly 
payments? 

They are so small individually that it is not neces- 
sary; but the greatest care should be exercised by 
the committee and treasurer to be perfectly accurate 
in all accounts. 



Chapter XXII 

THE TEMPERANCE 
OR CITIZENSHIP COMMITTEE 

Why is this called the temperance or citizen- 
ship committee? 

Because either name may be adopted, according 
as the society wishes to confine the work of the 
committee to temperance or broaden it to take in 
all other civic duties. 

Who should be placed upon this committee? 

The more mature and better-informed members 
of the society, and especially the young men that 
have reached voting age. 

What is the chief work the citizenship com- 
mittee may do? 

It may direct the Endeavorers in civic studies. 
Most of them are not old enough, probably, for any 
active part in civic life; but they are old enough to 
study that life, and prepare themselves for action 
when the time comes. 

How may these civic studies be carried on? 

By the formation of a class for the study. One of 
the young men of the society, or perhaps some well- 
informed man in the older church membership, will 

93 



94 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 



act as leader of the class. A text-book will be chosen, 
and a chapter will be read and discussed at each 
meeting of the class. 

How may these studies be applied to the 
actual conditions in your town? 

By means of talks given by the town officers in 
charge of the various matters about which the En- 
deavorers are reading and studying. For instance, 
when the school system is studied you may have a 
talk from the school superintendent or county com- 
missioner of education, or some member of the 
school board. In the same way you will obtain 
talks from the mayor or some alderman, the chief 
of police or some police-court judge, the street com- 
missioner, a member of the board of health, the 
water commissioner, some assessor, the head of the 
lighting department, the fire chief, the public 
librarian, the postmaster, the jailor, an editor, a 
member of the legislature, perhaps a Congressman. 
These talks will be given before the study class, but 
the whole society should be invited, and, indeed, 
the entire church will be interested in them. Each 
talk should be followed by a lot of questions ad- 
dressed to the speaker. 

What will this committee do in the society 
prayer meeting? 

It may take charge of the meetings with civic and 
temperance topics, and there are several such in the 
course of every year. It may see that civic and 
temperance applications are made at every meeting 
where they will be appropriate to the topic. 



TEMPERANCE OR CITIZENSHIP 95 

What civic work may the Endeavorers be 
led to do? 

They may circulate petitions for moral measures, 
and forward them, when they are signed, to the 
members of the legislature and of Congress, and to 
other officers who will be influenced by them; and 
petitions, though often decried, do have a mighty 
influence over legislation. They may write, and see 
that others write, letters of hearty praise to public 
officers and law- makers when they have taken a 
noble stand. These letters do great good. They 
may engage actively in temperance campaigns, 
holding mass-meetings, organizing temperance pa- 
rades with striking banners and transparencies, 
circulating temperance leaflets, and working to get 
out the full temperance vote. They may get up a 
society temperance pledge to be signed by all the 
members and then framed, each new member sign- 
ing it as he enters. 

What can the committee do on the various 
holidays ? 

It can work for the " safe and sane " observance 
of the Fourth of July by the prohibition of danger- 
ous fireworks and of noise, and by the substitution 
of attractive public exercises, parades, public fire- 
works, and athletic contests. They can aid the old 
soldiers in the celebration of Memorial Day. Wash- 
ington's and Lincoln's birthdays may be celebrated 
by suitable exercises. They can see to the observ- 
ance of Thanksgiving Day by a religious service, if 
that good old custom has fallen into disuse. 



96 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 

What can the committee do for prisoners ? 

It can, with the consent of the chaplain and the 
warden, form Christian Endeavor societies among 
the prisoners, and seek by personal work among 
them to bring them to Jesus Christ. 

What work for Sabbath -observance may the 
committee do? 

It may circulate petitions for the closing of the 
post-office on the Lord's Day. It may organize the 
barber-shops and the meat-shops so that they shall 
be closed on Sunday. It may lead in a citizens' 
movement for the enforcement of the Sunday laws. 

What other lines of work are possible for 
this committee? 

Humane work — the prevention of cruelty to 
animals. The formation of anti-cigarette leagues 
among the boys. The formation of village improve- 
ment societies. The holding of debates on public 
questions at our Christian Endeavor socials. The 
use of vacant lots for market gardens. The opening 
of reading and recreation rooms. The establish- 
ment of a Christian Endeavor gymnasium. 

Where will the committee find full directions 
for all this work? 

In " Citizens in Training," a book sent postpaid 
for 35 cents by the United Society of Christian En- 
deavor, Tremont Temple, Boston. Also in the 
United Society's five-cent pamphlet, " The Effective 
Temperance Committee. " 



Chapter XXIII 

THE PASTOR'S AID COMMITTEE 

What is the object of this committee? 

To help the pastor in every way he may suggest, 
and thus help to show and to cultivate the loyalty 
of our society to Christ and the Church. 

How large should the committee be? 

That depends upon the size of the society and 
the work the committee finds to do. Three is the 
usual number, but if the society is small one person 
may be the committee, with power to call on other 
members of the society to help him. If tasks that 
require much work are undertaken by the commit- 
tee, and if the society is a large one, the committee 
may be enlarged to any suitable extent. 

What sort of persons should be placed on 
this committee? 

Those that will be most helpful to the pastor, 
and he should be consulted when the committee is 
made up. He will probably wish one at least of the 
committee to be quite mature. If there is a stenog- 
rapher and typewriter in the society, she or he 
should be placed on the committee. Some one with 
a bicycle or automobile or horse and carriage will 
be helpful. 

97 



98 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 

What is the relation of the pastor to this 
committee? 

He should be a member ex officio, but without 
being required to attend the meetings of the com- 
mittee except when it is perfectly convenient. The 
committee will hold itself ready at any time to take 
up any work he may have for it to do. 

What if the pastor does not suggest work 
for the committee? 

Then the chairman of the committee will go to 
the pastor and ask for work, at the same time sug- 
gesting some of the tasks named below, and inquir- 
ing if the committee can be of service along any of 
these lines. 

What can the pastor's aid committee do to 
help the pastor in his routine work? 

It can run on errands, especially with the aid of 
the bicycle or horse. It can fold letters and direct 
envelopes. It can use the manifolder. It can use 
the typewriter. It can act as secretary, if one of 
the committee knows shorthand. It can place 
notices on bulletin boards. It can see that notices 
get into the papers, if there is no press committee. 
It can help in keeping up the card catalogue of the 
members of the parish. It can distribute circulars 
regarding the church from house to house. It can 
call at the parsonage or the pastor's study once a 
week on a certain day and hour, ready for the tasks 
that may have accumulated. 



pastor's aid committee 99 

How can the committee help in the church 
prayer meeting? 

By taking part promptly, and leading other En- 
deavorers to do the same. By organizing a choir of 
Endeavorers. By acting as ushers. By carrying 
out any special prayer-meeting plan the pastor may 
form. 

How can the committee help the Sunday- 
evening service? 

By getting up special music for it. By advertising 
the topics of the sermons through the town. By 
reminding the society of its pledge to attend all the 
regular Sunday and midweek church services, un- 
less prevented by a reasonable excuse. 

How can the committee extend the pastor's 
influence? 

By praising his good work to all whom the mem- 
bers meet. By advertising the church meetings 
zealously. By seeking to bring new members into 
the church. 

How can the committee be a personal com- 
fort to the pastor? 

By telling him when his sermons help them per- 
sonally. By praying much for him, and letting him 
know it. By often assuring him of their love and 
loyalty. 

How can the committee keep from getting 
into ruts? 



IOO EXPERT ENDEAVOR 



By studying all that they can find, in books and 
periodicals, that will furnish new plans for church 
work. These plans it will bring to the attention of 
the pastor, but not in an obtrusive or officious way. 

What are some of the errors this committee 
may make? 

It may think too highly of itself. Let it remem- 
ber that it is not doing the great work of the pastor, 
but is only helping a very little; and it is the pastor 
that is doing it. It may come to have too high an 
opinion of its own enterprise and good judgment. 
It should remember that the pastor has had a 
special training for his work, and is an expert to 
whose opinions they should listen with the greatest 
respect. 

How will the committee know that it is 
succeeding? 

As the pastor comes to rely upon it more and 
more, and finds more and more work for it to do. 



Chapter XXIV 
THE GOOD-LITERATURE COMMITTEE 

What is the work of the good-literature 
committee? 

It is to promote in every way feasible, among the 
Endeavorers and outside the society, the reading of 
good books and periodicals. 

How large should the committee be? 

Three members is the usual number. If the so- 
ciety is very small, a committee of one is much bet- 
ter than no committee at all. In a large society, if 
the committee finds much work to do, it may be 
enlarged to any desired size. 

Who should be members of this committee? 

Those that like to read the best books and peri- 
odicals, and feel the importance of good reading for 
the development of the Christian life. Those that 
are enthusiastic and energetic in recommending 
good reading to others. 

What periodicals will the good -literature 
committee urge the Endeavorers to read ? 

The Christian Endeavor national and local pa- 
pers, and the general and missionary periodicals of 
the denomination. It will also speak occasionally 



102 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 

of especially good articles in the current magazines 
and other periodicals. 

How will the good -literature committee 
promote the reading of these periodicals? 

By obtaining subscriptions for them (and the 
publishers of all of them will gladly co-operate, 
usually giving substantial inducements for the 
work). Also by distributing sample copies, and 
speaking before the society about the periodicals. 
Call attention to occasional features of special in- 
terest by reading extracts in the meetings or post- 
ing articles and poems on the bulletin board of the 
society. Lend numbers among the members of the 
society. Keep sample copies hung up in the society 
meeting-place, each marked with the price of the 
subscription. 

What kind of books will the committee 
urge the Endeavorers to read? 

Books on the Bible and on missions. Books on 
reforms. Patriotic books. Devotional books. Books 
on Christian Endeavor history and methods. Books 
helpful in Sunday-school work. Stories of an up- 
lifting nature. The best poetry, history, and biog- 
raphy. 

Where are the Endeavorers to get the books 
the committee recommends? 

The society may well establish a Christian En- 
deavor library, and one of the good-literature com- 
mittee will be the librarian. The Sunday-school 



GOOD-LITERATURE COMMITTEE IO3 

library will also be used, and the public library of 
the town, if you have one. A magazine club may 
be formed, and also a club for the purchase and 
loan of books. Hold a book social, the admission 
fee to which will be some good book, new or second- 
hand. 

How will the committee bring these books 
to the attention of the society? 

Hold a book evening, the exercises consisting of 
reviews of many books by many Endeavorers. 
Often let members of the committee speak of cer- 
tain books which they have found interesting and 
helpful, reading extracts from them in the prayer 
meeting. After a book has been mentioned thus, 
the speaker will hold it up and get some one to take 
it on the spot. Reading* contests are good, a book 
being given as a reward for the reading, in a year or 
in six months, of the best and largest list of 
books. 

How will the good-literature committee 
help the cause of good reading outside the 
society? 

By systematically gathering up the books and 
periodicals that the members of the society and 
congregation will give it, and putting them where 
they will be well used, as in hospitals, asylums, 
lumber-camps, on board boats, in railway sta- 
tions, police stations, fire stations, car-barns, barber- 
shops, and the like. Have receptacles for good 



104 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 

reading-matter in these public places, putting the 
name of your society upon them. 

What is a good-literature table? 

It is a table in the vestibule of your church to 
which the members of the society and congregation 
bring whatever good reading-matter they are 
through with. Every one has the privilege of taking 
from the table whatever he or she wishes, this per- 
mission being given by a placard over the table. 
The good-literature committee takes care of this 
table. 

What are reading- circles? 

Groups of the Endeavorers, organized by the lit- 
erature committee, who will meet at the homes of 
the members, each group to read some book which 
it has selected under the committee's guidance. 
After several chapters have been read will come 
amusements, to finish a very delightful evening. 

Where can you learn more about the work 
of this committee? 

In " Good-Literature Committees at Work," a 
five-cent pamphlet published by the United Society 
of Christian Endeavor, giving in full many helpful 
. plans. 

What will be the result of faithful service on 
the part of the committee? 

A better informed society, a wider outlook, and a 
great mental and spiritual stimulus that will be 
invaluable. 



Chapter XXV 
THE WHATSOEVER COMMITTEE 

What is the whatsoever committee? 

It is made up of the Juniors that graduate each 
year from the Junior society. They remain in the 
whatsoever committee for a year after they enter 
the Young People's society. The committee may 
also receive the youngest and least experienced 
members of the Young People's society, even though 
they have not passed through the Junior society. 

What is the purpose of the whatsoever com- 
mittee ? 

To make the Junior graduates familiar with the 
Young People's society, and work them igto the 
prayer meetings and the older forms of committee 
service. 

Who is usually appointed chairman of the 
whatsoever committee? 

The Junior superintendent, or some other person 
closely identified with Junior work — perhaps the 
assistant superintendent or some older Endeavorer 
who has passed through the Junior society. 

What is the lend-a-hand committee? 

Where there are many graduates from the Junior 
society it is sometimes best to divide them, placing 
105 



106 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 

the boys in a whatsoever committee and the girls 
in a lend-a-hand committee. The work of the two 
committees, however, is practically the same. 

What is the character of the work of the 
whatsoever committee? 

As its name implies, it is to do " whatsoever " it 
finds to do, " whatsoever " its members think 
Christ would like to have done. Especially, it is to 
do " whatsoever " work does not fall anywhere 
within the sphere of any other committee. It is an 
" odds-and-ends " committee. Thus its members 
get training in a variety of services. 

How should the whatsoever committee 
meetings be conducted? 

With great care, since the members are in train- 
ing for their Christian Endeavor work in the future. 
The committee should meet regularly once a 
month, and should consider what it has undertaken 
during the past month and how it has succeeded. 
Then it should go on to plan definite work for the 
month to come. The report to be presented to the 
society at the next business meeting should be read 
and discussed, that it may be as good as possible. 

What may the whatsoever committee do for 
the prayer- meeting room? 

It may be a ventilation committee, seeing that 
the air is fresh before the meetings open, and open- 
ing the windows to renew the air after the prayer 
meeting, if there is another meeting in the same 
room immediately. It may also be a janitor com- 



THE WHATSOEVER COMMITTEE 107 

mittee, placing the chairs in order at the beginning 
of the meeting, if they are not in order, and seeing 
that they are in order and all bits of paper are 
picked up at the close of the meetings. It may also 
take charge of the hymn-books, distributing them 
at the beginning of the meetings and gathering them 
at the close. 

What other work may the committee do 
with regard to the hymn-books? 

It may mend them if they are torn, and erase any 
writing in them made by the careless among the 
Endeavorers. It may do the same for the Bibles 
that the society may own, and for the books in the 
Christian Endeavor library or the Sunday-school 
library, or for the Sunday-school and church 
hymnals. 

What may the whatsoever committee do for 
the prayer meetings? 

Its members may always occupy the front seats, 
and thus set a good example. They may take part 
in the very first minutes and thus send the meeting 
off with a rush, even though their participation is 
very brief. They may sing a hymn all by them- 
selves, having practised it carefully. They may 
now and then furnish recitations appropriate to the 
topics. 

What may the whatsoever committee do to 
help the other committees? 

Its members may wait on the tables, if the society 



Io8 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 



has a supper to give. They may distribute the topic 
cards for the prayer-meeting committee, and the 
pledge envelopes for the treasurer. They may aid 
the flower committee in gathering flowers and in 
taking flowers to the sick. The chairman of the 
whatsoever committee will offer the help of her 
committee to all the other committee chairmen. 

What may the whatsoever committee do for 
the church? 

It may aid the janitor in keeping the church yard 
and the church building clean and tidy. It may 
help the pastor's aid committee in its work for the 
pastor. If a special need of the church is noticed, 
it may fill it or get others to fill it. 

What may the whatsoever committee do in 
preparation for entering upon the full work 
of Christian Endeavor? 

It may take up some book of Christian Endeavor 
methods and form a class to study it. The best plan 
is for its members to obtain this volume, and study 
it so faithfully that they can pass the examinations 
and qualify as " Christian Endeavor Experts." 

How, in general, will this committee find 
work to do? 

By keeping its eyes open and always being on 
the watch for what needs to be done in the Chris- 
tian Endeavor society, in the Junior and Interme- 
diate societies, in the Sunday school, and in the 
church. 



Chapter XXVI 
THE PRESS COMMITTEE 

What is the work of the press committee? 

To advertise Christian Endeavor, and stimulate 
the local society workers everywhere by writing 
Christian Endeavor news items and other Christian 
Endeavor material for the secular and religious 
papers. 

Who should be placed upon this committee? 

The chairman should be some one with newspaper 
experience, if it is possible to obtain the services of 
such a person. The members should be good writers, 
full of the spirit of Christian Endeavor. 

How large should the committee be? 

That depends upon the number of papers for 
which you wish to write regularly. If you are to 
cover several papers in the same field, as several 
dailies in your city, it is best to have a separate re- 
porter for each. 

For what periodicals will the press commit- 
tee write? 

Primarily for the secular newspapers, since those 

receive the least news about Christian Endeavor 

and the churches. Then the religious papers of 

your denomination and the general religious press, 

109 



IIO EXPERT ENDEAVOR 

including, of course, The Christian Endeavor World, 
and your local Christian Endeavor paper> if there is 
one. 

How will the committee get into the local 
secular papers? 

Simply by writing bright, sensible items and 
handing them to the editor while they are fresh. 
Whatever is really " newsy " will find a welcome 
with him. 

How will you prepare the manuscript? 

Write on only one side of the paper. Typewrite 
everything. Be perfectly accurate in proper names 
and all other matters. 

What kind of items will the editor want? 

Whatever is unusual. Whatever has a " human 
interest." Whatever stirs persons in an interesting 
way. Whatever has "the story element." Notice 
what the editor does put in and take it for a cue. 

What style of writing should be used? 

Do not attempt to be " smart " in your writing. 
A bit of humor, however, of sly wisdom, of quaint- 
ness and unexpectedness, is sure to win favor for a 
writer. Be yourself; but make the most of yourself. 
Be original; and make your originality worth while. 
Study the best models. 

How can you get regular space — a Christian 
Endeavor department — in the secular papers? 

Only after the editor has become thoroughly 



THE PRESS COMMITTEE III 

familiar with your ability and thoroughly con- 
vinced of the interest and popularity of what you 
have to offer. When you have convinced him of 
this, he will probably be willing to give you regular 
space. 

What kind of news is suitable for the de- 
nominational papers and "The Christian En- 
deavor World" and other Christian Endeavor 
papers? 

These papers, having a wider field, do not care 
for the items of purely local interest that furnish 
perhaps the most acceptable material for the local 
secular papers. They want what will appeal to 
readers that do not know the persons in your so- 
ciety, and do not care who is president or who got 
up that bright social and fine prayer-meeting plan. 
They would be glad to know, however, just how the 
social or the prayer meeting was conducted. 

What is the most common fault of those 
that send items to the national and denomi- 
national papers? 

Prolixity. They are likely to take five hundred 
words in saying what could be said far more at- 
tractively in one hundred words. Do not leave it 
for the editor to boil down what you send: do it 
yourself. Consider carefully what is of merely local 
interest, and cut it out. Then condense the rest to 
the extreme limits of readableness. The editor will 
probably condense the result — and thereby im- 
prove it. 



112 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 

How can the press committee help the 
church? 

If the church has no press committee (and it 
probably has not), its work may be greatly aided 
by adding church news to the Christian Endeavor 
news furnished to the secular and religious papers. 
All such items should be submitted to the pastor 
before they are sent. 

How long should the press committee serve? 

The work of this committee requires peculiar and 
exceptional ability, and therefore the members of 
the committee may well be continued in office for 
more than one term, or till others can be found to 
take their places. The committee, however, should 
be continually " working in " new members. 

Where can the press committee learn more 
about this work? 

In " Christian Endeavor Ink," a pamphlet for 
press committees and Christian Endeavor reporters, 
sent by the United Society of Christian Endeavor, 
Tremont Temple, Boston, postpaid, for ten cents. 
This pamphlet contains eight chapters of varied and 
practical advice. 



Chapter XXVII 

PRAYER-MEETING LEADERS 

Why is the work of the prayer- meeting 
leader important? 

Because the success or failure of the meeting is 
largely in his hands. The meeting may recover if 
he gives it a poor start, but it is not likely to do so. 
On the other hand, if he gives it a good start it is 
quite certain to be a good meeting. 

Who should lead a Christian Endeavor 
meeting? 

Any one that loves the Lord Jesus Christ and 
wishes to do His will. This spirit in a leader is far 
more important than wisdom or experience or 
ability of any kind. 

When should the leader begin his prepara- 
tion? 

As soon as he learns that he is to lead the meet- 
ing! He should at once read the Scripture passage 
and fix the subject well in mind, so that he may be 
ready to seize upon the many observations, inci- 
dents, illustrations, and thoughts that will be sure 
to come up if he is on the watch for them. 

For what will the leader prepare? 

"3 



114 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 

For his opening words, of course, but especially 
for the part in the meeting to be taken by the other 
Endeavorers. His chief concern will be for the pro- 
gramme of the meeting. 

What is the leader's main temptation and 
snare? 

To think too much about his opening remarks 
and make them too long and elaborate. He is to be 
the leader — that is, he is to lead others to take 
part in the meeting; he is not to say it all himself. 
Many leaders make this mistake. 

What should be the nature of the leader's 
opening talk? 

It should never be exhaustive, or seem to be. It 
should not take up many points; for some of them 
will certainly be in the minds of the other En- 
deavorers, and they will be prevented from speak- 
ing, or will speak without the interest and force 
they would otherwise have. The leader's talk should 
be suggestive and stimulating, but not wearisome 
and discouraging. Therefore the leader should sel- 
dom make more than one point, and he should 
make that point very briefly and brightly. A story 
or anecdote with a word of application is an ideal 
leader's talk. The best thing the leader can possibly 
do is to give a personal experience bearing on the 
subject, because that will suggest to others the most 
helpful contributions they can make to the meeting. 

How long should the leader's talk be? 

Never more than five minutes. 



PRAYER-MEETING LEADERS 115 

May it be written and read? 

Possibly, but even in the case of a beginner it is 
far more effective if he says only ten sentences, and 
in a bungling way, than if he reads a five-minute 
essay couched in his very finest language. 

How will the leader set others to work for 
the meeting? 

He will give out questions bearing on the topic, 
such as those printed every week in The Christian 
Endeavor World. He may get some one to commit 
to memory a fine poem and recite it. He may get 
another Endeavorer to give an object-talk or a 
chalk-talk. He may obtain a symposium, asking 
several members to give their views on the same 
question one after another. He may get up a de- 
bate on a point connected with the topic. He may 
ask several members to write out questions to be 
propounded at the meeting — questions bearing on 
the topic. He may distribute a few good quotations 
to be read, with comments. He may assign several 
subdivisions of the subject to different members for 
one-minute talks. 

What is the value of a novelty? 

One new plan is the making of a meeting, and one 
new plan is enough. The leader may well carry out 
the novelty for the meeting which is described in 
each number of The Christian Endeavor World. 

What instruction about beginning should 
the leader observe? 



Il6 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 

To begin promptly on time. If the members are 
not seated, he will not wait for them to be seated. 
If the pianist is not in her place, he will start off with 
a song led by himself, or some one else, independent 
of the piano. Sometimes it is well not to start with 
a song but with some less common feature. 

What instructions about the main portion 
of the meeting? 

Let everything move briskly. Allow no gaps in 
your schedule. Pass from point to point promptly. 

Should the leader talk during the meeting, 
urging the members on ? 

That seldom does good, and often does harm. If 
the leader has made thorough preparation before- 
hand by setting the members at work, talk from 
him through the meeting will not be necessary. 

How should the meeting be closed? 

Call on the pastor for his closing five minutes. 
Have some closing feature that will be impressive, 
like the concert reading of some appropriate hymn, 
or prayers by three members in succession, or the 
repetition of some part of the pledge in concert, or 
sentence prayers for the society and its work. 

What is the prayer- meeting leader's one 
reliance? 

Prayer. He will pray much during his prepara- 
tion, and while the meeting is in progress; and he 
will offer a prayer for God's blessing on the com- 
pleted work. That blessing will always be bestowed. 



Chapter XXVIII 
ASSOCIATE MEMBERS 

What are the associate members of the so- 
ciety of Christian Endeavor ? 

Associate members are, according to the consti- 
tution, " young persons of worthy character who 
are not at present willing to be considered decided 
Christians." 

What promises are made by the associate 
members ? 

The associate member's pledge is, "As an asso- 
ciate member I promise to attend the prayer meet- 
ings habitually, and declare my willingness to do 
what I may be called upon to do as an associate 
member to advance the interests of the society." 

What is the relation of the active members 
to the associate members? 

The constitution says that the associate members 
" shall have the special prayers and sympathy of 
the active members," and that the society will work 
toward making them active members in time. 

What are the duties of the associate mem- 
bers with regard to the Christian Endeavor 
prayer meetings? 

117 



Il8 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 

To attend them regularly. That involves, of 
course, quiet and earnest attention when there. 
The associate member is in training to be an active 
member, and his training comes largely from hear- 
ing and observation of what the active members 
say and do. 

Is the associate member to take part in the 
prayer meetings? 

He has not promised to do so, and is not required 
to, but the society will be glad to have him take 
part at any time and in any way he will. He should 
always take part in spirit, by inward prayer, and 
by joining in the thought of the hymns and Bible- 
reading and in the prayers and testimonies of others. 

What are the ways in which the associate 
members may begin to take part in the prayer 
meetings ? 

By reading verses of Scripture and gradually add- 
ing to the reading a few words of their own. By 
calling for the singing of appropriate hymns, and 
gradually by adding to the announcements of such 
hymns a word or two of original testimony. Hymns, 
however, should not be called for toward the crowded 
end of a meeting nor soon after another hymn has 
been sung. Also, the associate member will find it 
easy to begin with a sentence prayer, and for that 
purpose it is best to commit to memory some prayer 
sentence from the Bible, especially from one of the 
Psalms. 



ASSOCIATE MEMBERS 119 

What part will the associate members take 
in the consecration meetings ? 

If their names are called (they should be called 
at the beginning of the meeting) they will be ex- 
pected only to answer, " Present." It is hoped, 
however, that gradually the associates will give 
something more than this when their names are 
called. 

What committee work may associates do ? 

Some societies have the helpful custom of placing 
the associates on the different committees as assist- 
ant members. In that position the associates are 
expected to aid the other members in their work, 
under the direction of the chairman, thus learning 
about the work and becoming ready to take it up 
as active members. It may be found well to group 
the associates in a committee by themselves under 
the leadership of an expert active Endeavorer, who 
will train them in many forms of committee 
service. 

What is meant by being a Christian? 

Accepting Christ openly as one's Saviour from sin 
and the Master of one's life. Christ asks for this 
open confession, since it is best for His followers 
and best for His church. It is a very slight return 
for all that He does for us. It is the manly and 
womanly way to start the Christian life. It is, how- 
ever, only a start, and being a Christian means to 
try to do all that Christ would have us do. 



120 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 



Does this involve joining some branch of 
Christ's church? 

It certainly does, and therefore at least half of the 
societies require all active members to be church- 
members. That matter is left for the individual 
societies and pastors to determine. 

Should the church-member remain in the 
associate member's class? 

Never; that class is reserved for those that are 
not yet ready to be called decided Christians. 

What, therefore, should be the steady aim 
of all associate members? 

To develop themselves in the Christian life with 
the positive intention of very soon becoming active 
Endeavorers and joining the church. 

How can associate members help one 
another? 

By fidelity to the society and to their pledge, and 
by urging the others to take with them the step 
into active membership. 

How can associate members help the so- 
ciety? 

By steady attendance at the meetings, by careful 
attention, by hearty singing, and by taking larger 
part in the meetings and in the committee work as 
fast as they can, " trusting in the Lord Jesus Christ 
for strength.'' 



Chapter XXIX 

THE TENTH LEGION 

What is the Tenth Legion? 

It is an enrollment, made by the United Society 
of Christian Endeavor, of all those that make it a 
practice to set apart at least a tenth of their income 
and use it for distinctively religious work. 

What was the origin of the Tenth Legion? 

It was established by Mr. W. L. Amerman in the 
New York City Christian Endeavor Union, and 
was adopted soon by the United Society as a world- 
wide movement for generous giving. 

What is the meaning of the name? 

It has reference to Caesar's famous Tenth Legion, 
and implies that givers of the tenth may accom- 
plish as great results in the warfare of Christ's king- 
dom against the evil that is in the world. 

What is the history of the practice of tithe- 
paying? 

In brief, it was the custom of the Old Testament 
Jews, who were required, in common with many 
other ancient nations, to set apart one-tenth (and 
often as much as three-tenths) of their income for 
the maintenance of religion. The tithes of the Jew 

121 



122 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 

corresponded to our secular taxes as well as our 
religious gifts. 

Has the tithe New Testament sanction? 

It is implied in Christ's statement (Matt. 23:23) 
with reference to the tithing of mint, anise, and 
cummin, and the neglect of the weightier matters — 
justice and mercy and faith: " These ye ought to 
have done, and not to have left the other undone." 

Why, then, is tithe-paying urged upon 
modern Christians? 

Because some standard of generous giving is most 
helpful, even if the standard does not fit every case. 
It is not enough to talk about systematic giving, for 
the gift of a cent a month would be systematic; nor 
about proportionate giving, for the gift of ten cents 
out of every hundred dollars' income would be a 
proportion. What is needed in all Christian work is 
a systematic generous proportion, and that is fur- 
nished by the tithe. 

But are there not some that ought not to 
give so much as one-tenth of their income? 

If any one can conscientiously say this of himself 
or herself, we should not question it; but the ques- 
tion for each one to settle with his conscience is, 
" Ought I not to give at least one-tenth of what 
God gives me for the carrying on of His work in the 
world? " 

But ought not all Christians to give God all 
that they have? 



THE TENTH LEGION 123 

Certainly, and setting apart for definite religious 
work one-tenth of one's income is a very great spur 
toward using for God all one's possessions. 

What is the analogy to the Sabbath? 

We all believe in setting apart to special religious 
work one-seventh of our time, though we all believe 
that all our time should be spent as God would have 
us spend it. Setting apart in this way one-seventh 
of our time greatly helps us to spend it all in right 
ways. It is just so with our money. 

What is the first step toward tithe-paying? 

To keep an accurate account of our income and 
our gifts, and see the proportion we are giving to 
religious work. We shall probably find that we are 
giving a much smaller proportion than we thought 
we were. 

What is the next step? 

To open up in a little book an "Account with the 
Lord," placing on the left-hand page a record of 
our income, dividing each item by ten, and on the 
right-hand an account of our gifts to religious work. 
The two should be made to balance each month — 
though if the right-hand total exceeds the left-hand 
you will be glad to let it remain! 

What is meant by " income "? 

All the money that comes in, whether it is a reg- 
ular income or irregular. Business expenses, how- 
ever, should be deducted before taking the tithe, 
such as the salaries paid to employees and the cost 
of goods sold. 



124 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 

What is meant by " gifts to religious work " ? 

Expenditures for any object that you consider 
special and definite work for God. You alone are to 
be the judge, and of course you will wish to train 
your conscience with the fullest knowledge of the 
work that needs doing. 

What is the advantage of joining the Tenth 
Legion? 

The inspiration of fellowship in a great move- 
ment, and the help that is given others when they 
learn of the large numbers that have adopted this 
method of giving. 

How does one become a member of the 
Tenth Legion? 

By signing the covenant. Send a two-cent 
stamp to General Secretary William Shaw, Tremont 
Temple, Boston, Mass., expressing your purpose to 
join, and he will send you the Tenth Legion certifi- 
cate, which you will keep. 

Can one withdraw from the Tenth Legion? 

Yes, at any time, simply by notifying Secretary 
Shaw. It is, however, the rarest thing for any one 
to withdraw. Many hundreds of testimonies have 
been received stating that the writers have found 
the greatest satisfaction and joy in giving according 
to this sensible, just, and businesslike method. That 
is also the personal testimony of the writer of this 
book. 



Chapter XXX 
THE QUIET HOUR 

What is meant by " the Quiet Hour "? 

It is a regular time spent daily in quiet com- 
munion with God and meditation on the Bible, and 
the greatest themes of life and destiny. 

How is it connected with our Christian En- 
deavor pledge? 

In the pledge we promise to make it the rule of 
our lives to pray and read the Bible every day. The 
Quiet Hour simply makes this pledge a little more 
definite. 

What are the Comrades of the Quiet Hour? 

An organization established by Dr. Clark, who 
proposed that the United Society of Christian 
Endeavor should enroll as Comrades of the Quiet 
Hour all those, whether Endeavorers or not, who 
agreed to make it the rule of their lives to spend 
some definite part of every day (at least fifteen 
minutes ) at some regular time — early in the 
morning is suggested — in quiet communion with 
God and meditation upon religious themes. 

How does one become a Comrade of the 
Quiet Hour? 

125 



126 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 



By sending a statement of one's desire to Rev. 
F. E. Clark, Tremont Temple, Boston, enclosing a 
two-cent stamp. The Quiet Hour pledge will be 
returned, to be signed and kept by the Comrade. 

How may one withdraw from the organiza- 
tion? 

Simply by sending word to Dr. Clark that one 
wishes to withdraw; but you will not wish to! 

Why is it best to observe the Quiet Hour in 
the same place, as a rule? 

Because the surroundings will come to suggest 
devout thoughts, and will put the spirit in the mood 
for helpful meditation and prayer. 

Why is it best to observe the Quiet Hour 
early in the morning? 

Because then the mind is fresh and strong from 
the rest of the night, and our meditation is sure to 
be more helpful and our communion more inspir- 
ing. Moreover, the result of it can be carried into 
the day's work to enrich it. But if circumstances 
prevent the morning Quiet Hour, almost equal good 
can be gained from a Quiet Hour at night, review- 
ing the events of the day and praying for a blessing 
upon the morrow. 

Why is it best to set a minimum of fifteen 
minutes? 

Because we do not usually give enough time to 
such exercises, and they are so brief that nothing 



THE QUIET HOUR 1 27 

comes of them. If we put little into a thing, we can- 
not expect to take much out of it. And when we 
once get into the spirit of the Quiet Hour the fifteen 
minutes will seem all too short. 

What may well be the beginning of every 
Quiet Hour? 

To remind ourselves that God is present. To say 
over and over to ourselves, " God is here. Christ is 
by my side. The all-seeing, the all-powerful, the 
all-loving One is in this room." Realization of this 
is necessary in order to have real communion. 

What is the next step that it is usually best 
to take? 

Reading the Bible, the message from this present 
Father and Saviour. Read it in large portions, 
unless you come across some verse or short passage 
that compels you to stop and think. It is well to 
read it in consecutive portions, so as to get clear 
ideas of whole books. Many of these books can 
easily be read through at a sitting. 

What other helps shall we find for our Quiet 
Hour? 

Bible commentaries, especially those of a devo- 
tional turn, and books by the great masters of de- 
votional writing, such as Jeremy Taylor, Fenelon, 
Thomas & Kempis, Meyer, Matheson, Alexander 
Maclaren, Andrew Murray; together with the re- 
ligious poets — Browning, Tennyson, Whittier, 
Lowell, Wordsworth, and the great hymn-writers. 



128 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 

What will fill out and complete your Quiet 
Hour? 

Much prayer — loving and faith-filled talk with 
the Father; and much meditation — peaceful wait- 
ing to hear what the Father has to say to us. 

What will be the nature of our prayer? 

It will contain petition, asking from God simply 
and trustfully just the things we feel that we need 
from Him, whether they are little or large; but it 
will be made up far more of adoration and grati- 
tude, naming over our many blessings and praising 
the Giver of them. 

What will be some of the themes of our 
meditation ? 

The last day's living, and how it can be bettered 
to-day. The work that God has for us to do in the 
world, and how He will help us do it. Our be- 
setting sins, and how we may with God's grace 
overcome them. God's goodness to us and to the 
world as shown in the life and person of Jesus Christ. 
The many evidences of God's love, as shown in 
His providence in our lives and in the history of 
the world. Thought of these great themes will 
broaden our lives and will put into our souls the 
divine peace and power. 



Chapter XXXI 

CLASSES IN CHRISTIAN ENDEAVOR 
METHODS 

How to Use This Book as a Text-Book 

It is hoped that in many societies classes for the 
study of this book will be formed and that the book 
will also be used in this way in Christian Endeavor 
unions and at Christian Endeavor conventions and 
summer schools. 

The leader of such a class need not be an expert 
teacher. All that is necessary is that he believe in 
Christian Endeavor, be a good executive, and be 
ready to work and get others to work. 

The class may meet weekly or fortnightly; less 
frequently than that would not be best. It may 
consist of few or many. Sometimes the executive 
committee alone may take the course. Sometimes 
the entire society may be persuaded to pursue the 
study, taking only a chapter at a time and devoting 
to it the first fifteen minutes of the prayer meeting. 
Classes that have an hour or more to give to each 
recitation may well take several chapters at a time, 
especially those chapters that consider the less im- 
portant lines of work. 

We give below a series of suggestions for the class 
treatment of each chapter of this book. These sug- 
129 



I30 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 

gestions are to be followed in whole or in part, ac- 
cording to circumstances, and a resourceful leader 
will expand them in many ways. 

Chapter I. — The Prayer Meeting 

1. Ask the questions of the members of the class, 
as given in the chapter. 

2. Subject for a two-minute paper: " The Bible 
Authority for Prayer Meetings." 

3. Question for discussion: " Is it reasonable to 
expect every Christian to take part in prayer 
meetings? " 

4. Statement of experiences by the members of 
the class on these points: " What is hardest for me 
to do in the prayer meeting; " " What is most help- 
ful to me in the prayer meeting; " " How I have 
been able to overcome a prayer-meeting difficulty." 

5. Questions on the prayer meeting by all the 
members of the class, to be discussed by the class 
under the direction of the leader. 

6. Five-minute talk by an experienced prayer- 
meeting worker: " The Vast Gains That Come from 
the Prayer Meeting." 

Chapter II.— The Pledge 

1. Go over the questions and answers of the 
chapter. 

2. Discussion: " Which of the pledges suggested 
by the United Society is to be preferred? " 

3. Statement by the members of the class of the 
difficulties they have found with the pledge. 



CLASSES IN METHODS 13I 

4. Statement by the members of the class of the 
advantages they have gained from keeping the 
pledge. 

5. A five-minute talk or essay: " How the Chris- 
tian Endeavor Pledge Strengthens Character." 

6. Three members of the class will speak briefly 
on the topic, " How to Promote Loyalty to the 
Pledge," each giving only one point. 

Chapter III. — Christian Endeavor History 
and Principles 

1 . The leader will ask the questions in the chapter 
and the members of the class will give the answers. 

2. Discussion: " What principles of Christian 
Endeavor, among those enumerated in the last 
answer of the chapter, are most important? " 

3. Five-minute paper: " Interesting Facts about 
Christian Endeavor in Foreign Lands." 

4. Symposium by three speakers: " What I 
Think to be the Secret of the Success of the Christian 
Endeavor Society." 

5. Questions about Christian Endeavor prin- 
ciples, by the members of the class. 

6. Prayers of thanksgiving for the past of Chris- 
tian Endeavor and petitions for God's blessing 
upon its future. 

Chapter IV. — The President 

1. The members of the class will recite the an- 
swers to the questions in the chapter. 



132 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 

2 . The class will relate observations of presidents, 
stating the good and bad qualities of presidents as 
they have seen them. 

3. Discussion: " How can we be training Endeav- 
orers for the post of president? " 

4. Two-minute talk by the president of the soci- 
ety: ** How a President Likes to Be Supported." 

Chapter V. — The Vice-President 

1. Go over the questions and answers in the 
chapter. 

2. Two-minute essay: " When the Vice-President 
is a Useless Officer." 

3. Discussion: " How can we make better use of 
the vice-president in our society? " 

Chapter VI.— The Secretary 

1. The leader will ask the questions in the chap- 
ter and receive the answers from the members of 
the class. 

2. Model minutes of a Christian Endeavor busi- 
ness meeting will be read by one of the class in the 
character of a Christian Endeavor secretary. 

3. Brief talk on the different ways of calling the 
roll at the consecration meetings, taken from the 
United Society's ten-cent pamphlet, " Our Crown- 
ing Meeting." 

4. Reading of a model letter notifying a person 
of election to membership in the society. 

5. Discussion of good ideas for Christian En- 



CLASSES IX METHODS 133 

deavor topic cards, led by some member of the 
class previously appointed. 

Chapter VII. — The Treasurer 

1. The questions and answers in the chapter will 
be carefully canvassed. 

2. A well-kept treasurer's account-book will be 
exhibited. 

3. A member of the class will make a speech in 
the character of a treasurer stirring up an imag- 
inary society to pay its pledges to the society 
treasury. 

4. Two-minute talk: " The Importance of a 
Thorough Training in Giving When We Are 
Young." 

5. Discussion: " To what objects should the 
Christian Endeavor society contribute? " 

Chapter VIII. — The Corresponding Secretary 

1. Go over the questions in the chapter and draw 
answers from the class. 

2. Two-minute essay: " The Non-corresponding 
Corresponding Secretary." 

3. A member of the class will write a model letter 
of introduction and will read it to the class. 

4. A model letter to an Endeavorer in another 
State asking for the best methods of work in that 
society. 

5. A model letter to an absent member asking for 
a consecration-meeting message. 



134 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 

Chapter IX. — The Pianist 

1. The leader will ask the questions of the chap- 
ter and the members will give the answers. 

2. A talk from the church organist, giving points 
in regard to the playing of hymns for congregational 
singing. 

3. Illustrations on the piano of some of the com- 
mon faults of pianists and also of the excellencies 
that the pianist should seek to develop. 

Chapter X. — The Junior Superintendent 

1. Go over the questions and answers of the 
chapter. 

2. Some former member of the Junior society 
will tell what good he or she gained from the society. 
Question the speaker. 

3. A Junior superintendent will tell what help 
she wishes to receive from the older Endeavorers. 

4. Two-minute essay: " Why Every Church 
Should Have a Junior Society of Christian En- 
deavor." 

5. Discussion: " How to get the co-operation of 
the parents for the work of the Junior society." 

6. Discussion: " The practical advantage of 
Junior committees in the Young People's societies." 

Chapter XI. — The Intermediate Superin- 
tendent 

1. Ask the questions in the chapter and bring 
out the replies. 



CLASSES IX METHODS 135 

2. Some Intermediate superintendent will speak 
of the importance of Intermediate work. 

3. Discussion: " What should be the difference 
between the management of an Intermediate and a 
junior society? " 

4. Discussion: " What should be the difference 
between the management of an Intermediate and 
Young People's society? " 

5. Discussion: " Where in our locality should 
new Intermediate societies be formed? " 

Chapter XII. — The Lookout Committee 

1. Go over the questions and answers in the 
chapter. 

2. Two persons will present an impromptu dia- 
logue, one acting as chairman of a lookout commit- 
tee and the other as a person whom the chairman is 
trying to get to join the society. Objections will be 
made and met. 

3. A question-box on lookout-committee work. 

4. Essay (five minutes): " Gains that Come from 
the Christian Endeavor Pledge." 

5. Some experienced Endeavorer will show what 
an active lookout committee means to a society. 

6. An exhibition of lookout-committee printed 
helps. 

Chapter XIII. — The Prayer-Meeting Com- 
mittee 

1. A quiz on the points brought out in the 
chapter. 



I36 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 

2. Three members of the class will be appointed 
leaders of the prayer meeting of an imaginary soci- 
ety for three different topics soon to come, and the 
class will suggest to them, in an imaginary leaders' 
conference, how they may make their meetings 
shine. 

3. Two-minute essay: Why Some Prayer Meet- 
ings Drag." 

4. Discussion: " Elements that should be found 
in every consecration meeting." 

5. Talk by some expert prayer-meeting worker: 
" Bright Ways to Begin a Prayer Meeting." 

6. Talk by another expert worker: " Helpful 
Ways to Close a Prayer Meeting." 

Chapter XIV. — The Missionary Committee 

1. Review the questions and answers of the 
chapter. 

2. Discussion of the possibility of starting a 
mission-study class in your society. 

3. Two-minute paper: " How Maps May Be 
Made to Brighten Missionary Meetings." 

4. Symposium: three members of the class will 
give their ideas on how to promote missionary 
reading. 

5. Discussion: " How to increase the missionary 
gifts of a society." 

6. Report of experiences: the best plan for a 
missionary meeting you have seen tried. 



CLASSES IX METHODS I37 



Chapter XV. — The Social Committee 

1. Go over the questions and answers of the 
chapter. 

2. Three-minute talk: " Social to Save" — the 
helpful uses of Christian Endeavor socials. 

3. Statement of memories by the members of the 
class: " What social that you have attended stands 
out most pleasantly in your memory, and why? " 

4. Suggestions from all the class for good in- 
structive features for socials. 

5. Suggestions of good ways to break the ice at 
socials. 

6. Debate: "Is it best to have refreshments 
always at our Christian Endeavor socials? " 



Chapter XVI. — The Music Committee 

1. Ask the questions of the chapter and draw 
the answers from the class. 

2. The leader will announce a series of topics — 
love, heaven, temptation, salvation, Christ, coun- 
try, etc., — and will ask the class to suggest hymns 
for each. 

3. Discussion: " What novel musical features 
might we introduce in our society? " 

4. Five-minute talk: " Useful Pieces in Our 
Hymn-Book That We Seldom or Never Use." 

5. Discussion: " What are some causes in this 
community which we might aid with music? " 



I38 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 

Chapter XVII. — The Flower Committee 

1. Go over the questions and answers of the 
chapter. 

2. One of the class will write and read a model 
letter to be sent by the flower committee with 
flowers to an invalid. 

3. Three-minute essay: " Some of the Wrong 
Ways to Arrange Flowers." 

4. Five-minute talk, with illustrations: " Some 
Right Ways to Arrange Flowers." 

5. Discussion: " How can we make a better use 
in this community of our Christian Endeavor 
flowers? " 

Chapter XVIII. — The Information Committee 

1. A drill on the questions in the chapter. 

2. A model information committee report, made 
up from the last number of The Christian Endeavor 
World. 

3. Discussion: " The advantage of having regular 
information-committee reports in our meetings." 

Chapter XIX*— The Sunday-School Com- 
mittee 

1. A quiz on the questions and answers of the 
chapter. 

2. Three-minute talk by the Sunday-school 
superintendent: " What the Sunday-School Com- 
mittee May Do for Our School." 



CLASSES IX METHODS 139 

3. Three-minute talk by the Christian Endeavor 
president: " What Our Sunday School May Do for 
Our Society." 

Chapter XX. — The Junior Committee 

1. Go over the questions and answers of the 
chapter. 

2. Discussion: " Why some Junior societies are 
disbanded." 

3. Three-minute talk: " What a Junior Commit- 
tee Would Accomplish for Our Junior Society." 

4. Question-box on the work of the Junior com- 
mittee. 

Chapter XXI. — The Finance Committee 

1. Discuss the questions and answers of the 
chapter. 

2. Brief talk by a Christian Endeavor treasurer: 
M Why Every Treasurer Needs a Finance Com- 
mittee." 

3. A model conversation: a member of the class 
supposed to be a member of a finance committee 
will approach another member asking for a regular 
contribution and presenting a card bearing various 
numbers, such as is described in the chapter. 

4. A similar conversation by two other members 
of the class, one of whom approaches the other with 
the request that he pay up what he owes the society 
on his pledge. 



140 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 



Chapter XXII. — The Temperance or Citizen- 
ship Committee 

1. Review the questions and answers of the 
chapter. 

2. Debate: " Should we have a temperance com- 
mittee or a citizenship committee? " 

3. Five-minute talk by some office-holder of 
your town: " Civic Work that Needs Doing in Our 
Community." 

4. General discussion of the subject by the class 
and the speaker. 

Chapter XXIII.— The Pastor's Aid Committee 

1. Ask the questions of the members of the class, 
as given in the chapter. 

2. Get your pastor to name some things that the 
pastor's aid committee might do for him and the 
church. 

3. Discussion: " What other work might the pas- 
tor's aid committee do in our church? " 

Chapter XXIV.— The Good -Literature Com- 
mittee 

' 1. The leader will ask the questions in the chap- 
ter, and the members of the class will giwe the 
answers. 

2. Reading of a list of periodicals for which a 
good-literature committee might obtain subscrip- 
tions in your society and church. 



CLASSES IN METHODS 141 

3. Talk: " Books I Have Read That I Should 
Like to Have the Members of the Society Encour- 
aged to Read." This by some one who has read 
widely and wisely. 

4. Discussion: " Shall we start a Christian En- 
deavor library? How shall we go about it? " 

Chapter XXV.— The Whatsoever Committee 

1. The members of the class will recite the an- 
swers to the questions in the chapter. 

2. Report of the work the whatsoever committee 
might do in your society, by a member of the class 
appointed a week in advance to investigate. 

3. Discussion: " Should we have both a what- 
soever committee and a lend-a-hand committee? " 

Chapter XXVI.— The Press Committee 

1. The leader will ask the questions in the chap- 
ter and receive the answers from the members of 
the class. 

2. A member of the class, having selected some 
well-written Christian Endeavor news items, will 
read them and point out their excellencies. 

3. The class will name advantages that would 
come from the work of a press committee in their 
society. 

4. The pastor will tell what the press committee 
might do to help the church. 

5. A member of the class will read a set of Chris- 
tian Endeavor items which he has composed re- 
lating to the recent history of the society. 



142 EXPERT ENDEAVOR 

Chapter XXVII. — Prayer-Meeting Leaders 

1. The questions and answers in the chapter will 
be carefully canvassed. 

2. The class will resolve itself into a band of 
prayer-meeting leaders about to lead a series of 
meetings, and will discuss how to lead each meeting 
to the best advantage. 

3. Five-minute talk: " Mistakes a Prayer-Meet- 
ing Leader is Likely to Make." 

4. Five-minute talk: " The Ideal Prayer- Meeting 
Leader." 

5. A question-box on the work of the prayer- 
meeting leader. 

Chapter XXVIII.— Associate Members 

1 . Go over the questions in the chapter and draw 
answers from the class. 

2. Three Endeavorers who have been associate 
members will give their experiences in that class of 
members. 

3. Discussion: " How many associate members 
should we have, compared with the number of 
active members? " 

4. Three-minute essay: " The Importance of 
Work with the Associates." 

Chapter XXIX. —The Tenth Legion 

1. Ask the questions in the chapter and bring 
out the replies. 

2. Those that have been giving a tenth will state 
their experiences. 



CLASSES IN METHODS 143 

3. Question-box on tithe-giving, conducted by a 
tithe-giver. 

4. Three-minute essay: " The Results if All 
Christians Would Give a Tenth." 

Chapter XXX.— The Quiet Hour 

1. A quiz on the points brought out in the 
chapter. 

2. Statements by Comrades of the Quiet Hour, 
each of whom will relate his experience in the 
Quiet Hour. 

3. Five-minute talk: " Books Helpful in the 
Quiet Hour." 

4. A question-box on the Quiet Hour, conducted 
by a Comrade of the Quiet Hour. 

5. Three-minute essay: " The Results if All 
Christians Would Observe the Quiet Hour." 



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